Attracting new talent to the automotive aftermarket is one of the most pressing challenges facing workshops today. Unlike other trades—such as electricians and plumbers — mechanics and technicians often receive less recognition and lower pay. This disparity is frequently linked to weaker collective representation. To address this, the National Automotive 3/90 Branch of Unite the Union was established in Ireland in 2023 to provide a stronger voice and better support for automotive professionals.

The new representative body came about when the formerly named Unite Mechanics and the  Vehicle Builders 3/90 Branch amalgamated. Before that the Mechanics Association of Ireland, a popular Facebook group with 5000+ members had been active before merging with Unite the Union in 2023.

Unite the Union has 1.1 million members and is the largest trade union in the Republic Of Ireland and the UK. The National Automotive 3/90 Branch growth has increased exponentially since its affiliation with Unite which has put considerable organisational experience and resources at its disposal.

Lee Waterson of the National Automotive 3/90 Branch says, “We represent, defend, support and empower automotive technicians, mechanics and logistical workers in the motor trade. We are actively campaigning for pay parity with other sectors and to be the voice for workers in the motor trade in the Republic Of Ireland.” 

As Lee explains a crucial part of the branch’s work is to change the public perception of the motor trade, something that will benefit employees and employers alike. He comments, “We are working to change the public perception of automotive technicians with a view to addressing legacy issues of pay disparity with other, unionised and organised trades such as plumbers, electricians and construction workers. In this regard we aim to resolve, in collaboration with the state training providers and their Generation Apprenticeship drive, the skills shortage and problems with retention of skilled workers that the motor sector has been experiencing for years.”

The aim is to gain recognitions for the skills and training that many automotive technicians now possess, working towards a better trained and better remunerated career path for those in the industry. To this end the branch offers advice and guidance and advocacy to apprentices and mechanics, helping to keep them supported where required. 

Lee adds, “Our ultimate goal is the majority representation of workers, giving them a stronger voice at legislative level to ensure our members are respected and remunerated fairly and that this can be enshrined in a Sectoral Employment Order or Registered Employment Agreement.”

The branch is also an advocate for the full transposition of the EU's Adequate Minimum Wage Directive, in particular to facilitate improvements in collective bargaining for employees in the workplace. 

The National Automotive 3/90  Branch of Unite the Union welcomes all mechanics, automotive technicians, apprentices and logistical workers in the motor trade. To find out more search Facebook or Instagram for National Automotive Branch or join the conversation  #whatareweworth. 

Alternatively interested parties can call the Branch Dublin office on 01 873 4577 and ask to speak to one of a union official for more information.