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Clarity Locums, an HSE-approved agency nurse provider, is prepared to assign nurses to HSE facilities to help address staff shortages. Meanwhile, health workers represented by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO), Fórsa, and Unite have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action to protest ongoing staffing issues.
Unions Highlight Strain on Services
The unions have cited recruitment restrictions and the suppression of posts within the Health Service Executive (HSE) as key factors causing severe strain on healthcare services and jeopardising patient safety.
In recent weeks, unions have staged lunchtime protests to draw attention to the problem.
Strong Mandate for Action
INMO members voted 95.6% in favour of industrial action, according to General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha. The union’s executive council will now collaborate with other health sector trade unions to decide on a coordinated response. Fórsa members also delivered a strong mandate, with 93.6% voting in favor of action on a 60.8% turnout.
Ashley Connolly, Head of Fórsa’s Health & Welfare Division, commented on the outcome:
“The ballot result illustrates our members' frustration and the challenges they're facing every day. Our extensive survey of Fórsa members in health had already revealed the real struggles they are facing to deliver services.”
Union Demands and Next Steps
Unite’s regional officer, Eoin Drummey, emphasized that the unions will provide three weeks’ notice before industrial action, as stipulated by an agreement with health service management.
“HSE management has a short window to avert industrial action by rolling back the discredited 'Pay and Numbers Strategy' and negotiating a safe staffing framework that priorities workers and patients,” said Drummey.
HSE Response
The HSE described the industrial action as regrettable, especially in light of increased funding for the health service and rising staff numbers. It defended its ‘Pay and Numbers Strategy’, stating that it has helped stabilize workforce numbers and allowed for staffing increases.
A spokesperson for the HSE said:
“The HSE awaits the outcome of the ongoing ballots. Should there be a mandate for industrial action, we will consider the matter in the context of the Public Service Agreement, once we receive details on the type of action proposed. The HSE engages with all trade unions to resolve issues and will continue to do so, utilising the industrial relations mechanisms of the state if required.”
The unions’ collective action underscores the pressing need for long-term solutions to staffing shortages to ensure sustainable healthcare services for both workers and patients.
Clarity Locums Ready to Assist – Contact Us Today
As an HSE-approved agency, Clarity Locums stands ready to support both public and private healthcare facilities by providing qualified nursing staff to alleviate immediate staffing challenges. We are committed to ensuring patient care is not compromised during these challenging times. If you are an HSE facility or a private client in need of professional and reliable healthcare staff, contact us today to discuss how we can assist in meeting your staffing needs. Together, we can work to ensure the continued delivery of quality healthcare services.
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