Vol. 569 No. 3
149 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the warning from a person (details supplied) of likely industrial unrest in the health sector unless action is taken to deal with several unresolved issues, including nurses' claim for a 35 hour working week; the steps being taken to deal with these issues and avert the dangers of industrial disputes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17537/03]
The Alliance of Nursing Unions lodged a claim on behalf of its members for: the introduction of a 35-hour week for nursing and midwifery grades; the introduction of a Dublin weighting allowance; and increased shift premiums. Management rejected the claim.
As agreement could not be reached between the parties, the dispute was referred to the Labour Relations Commission. A conciliation conference was held on 3 December 2002 at which no agreement was reached. The dispute was referred to the Labour Court on 28 March 2003 in accordance with section 26(1) of the Industrial Relations Act 1990. The court investigated the dispute on 20 May 2003.
The Labour Court issued its recommendation – LCR 17526 – on 18 June 2003. The Labour Court does not recommend concession of the unions' claim in this case.
