SIPTU has appointed its first senior woman industrial relations executive. Ms Patricia King, a former branch secretary with the union, is to become head of staff relations. The post is at regional secretary level, which is just below that of SIPTU's general officer board.
Ms King is only the second woman to be appointed to such a senior post, although 40 per cent of the membership is female. The other is Ms Rosheen Callender, SIPTU's national equality officer.
Ms King will be responsible for internal personnel and industrial relations matters.
