asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that there is a possibility of psychiatric nurses in the South Eastern Health Board resorting to industrial action due to the terms of settlement of the recent dispute not being implemented fully; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Psychiatric Nurses.
3.
I am not so aware.
In reply to a question on 22nd February last, I pointed out that the implementation of the recommendations made for the settlement of the dispute is primarily a matter for each health board.
My approval to the implementation of the terms of settlement by the South Eastern Health Board has been conveyed to the board.
Is the Minister aware that an official of the Association of Psychiatric Nurses has stated publicly that there is a threatened strike action unless the terms of the agreement are implemented fully? Will the Minister take steps to ensure that this will be done?
The latest report I have is that the arrangements which formed the settlement to the strike are being applied steadily. Making permanent the positions of the psychiatric nurses concerned is proceeding but there are some cases where it has not been completed in full. Permanent appointments have been completed in a number of hospitals, others are pending and will be completed shortly. The granting of incremental credits and other financial adjustments have been completed in a large number of cases and every effort is being made to have outstanding claims cleared up.