Dispute centres on 'inadequate' staffing levels in health service and a ceiling on total pay and workforce numbers
Talks at the WRC between the HSE and unions representing 80,000 healthcare workers continued late into the night to avert a nationwide work-to-rule due to begin next week over staffing levels and pay/workforce caps. Unions, including the INMO and Fórsa, are also threatening a one-day stoppage at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. The HSE has proposed greater consultation with unions, conversion of agency posts, and improved training/recruitment but no agreement has been reached. Unions argue that staffing caps are inadequate and highlight the increasing reliance on agency workers. Talks will continue on Saturday.