The Irish Transport and General Workers' Union (ITGWU) was a trade union established in Ireland in 1909. It was founded by James Larkin, an influential labor leader, with the primary aim of organizing and representing workers in various industries, particularly those in the transport and general workers' sectors.
The ITGWU played a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights and better working conditions during a time of significant social and economic inequality in Ireland. It fought for improved wages, reduced working hours, and fair employment practices across industries such as transport, dock work, agriculture, and manufacturing.
The union's influence extended beyond workplace issues, as it also became involved in broader political and social causes. It campaigned for universal suffrage and sought to address societal inequalities, envisioning a socialist future where workers would have greater control of their labor and resources.
The ITGWU was known for its militant approach to industrial action, organizing strikes and boycotts to pressure employers into meeting workers' demands. This approach often led to conflicts between the union and employers, as well as with government authorities seeking to suppress labor movements.
In 1924, the ITGWU merged with the Irish National Union of Dock Labourers, forming the new union known as the Transport and General Workers' Union. However, the legacy of the ITGWU remains significant in the history of Irish trade unions and workers' movements, as it laid the foundation for subsequent labor organizations fighting for workers' rights in Ireland.
