Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 January 2017
1329. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health the status of a dispute (details supplied); if there is any indication of a resolution; the number of beds affected in this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1803/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe HSE admitted two residents from Acute Services on the 12 January increasing the number of residents to 28. INMO and SIPTU members are not co-operating with the provision of care for these two additional residents, except in the case of critical or emergency care on the basis that there is an agreement in place in relation to the unit not exceeding 26 residents.
The INMO had given notice last week of their intention to commence industrial action on Wednesday 18 January. A meeting between HSE Management and the INMO was held yesterday to discuss contingency measures for the duration of the work to rule. The INMO has confirmed that the work to rule will commence at 8am on the morning of the 18 January with the withdrawal of services for any residents that exceed 26. In addition to this the INMO members will not perform any non-nursing duties e.g. Porter duties, answering telephones, cleaning, clerical duties etc.
The Labour Court has confirmed receipt of a submission from the WRC in respect of the outcome of the WRC Conciliation Conference that was held last week. The dispute is now subject of an urgent referral to the Labour Court by the HSE and it is intended to put the dispute on the agenda of the next meeting of the Implementation Body. The timeframe for hearing is in the region of 10 days with a date for recommendation of 17 days.
It is unfortunate that a resolution could not have been agreed and we will await the determination of the Labour Court.
