Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:701. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health if he will address concerns raised in respect of industrial action (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27568/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 31 May 2022
Ceisteanna (701)
Freagraí scríofa
Firstly, I would like to acknowledge and pay tribute to the dedication, professionalism and commitment of all medical scientists throughout the country. Their drive and dedication have been key components in our managing of the pandemic.
I acknowledge the MLSA’s claim for pay parity between medical scientists and clinical biochemists. As you are aware, the current public service agreement, Building Momentum 2021-2022, includes the process of Sectoral Bargaining, to address outstanding claims such as this one. Despite continued engagement between the MLSA and Health management since November 2021, and several proposals being explored, it had not been possible to agree a route to fully resolve the long-standing claim due to insufficient funds being available through Sectoral Bargaining.
This matter was escalated through the dispute resolution mechanisms under Building Momentum and considered twice by the Public Service Agreement Group (PSAG) on 31 March and 11 May. PSAG recommended that this matter be referred to the WRC for urgent engagement and that industrial peace be maintained. The MLSA met with Health management on 17 May at the WRC, however, no resolution was reached.
Following engagement at the Labour Court on 25 May, the parties have agreed to reconvene at the WRC for a further final engagement. This engagement will take place within a three week period. Any outstanding issues that cannot be resolved through the WRC process will be referred to the Labour Court. All industrial action will be suspended throughout the engagement process and pending any Labour Court Recommendation.
I welcome the engagement that took place through the Labour Court and the suspension of industrial action.