Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 July 2023
856. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Health if he will endeavour to bring the industrial dispute involving ambulance staff to a close by encouraging the HSE to recognise an organisation (details supplied). [35514/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraFirstly, I would like to acknowledge the important work carried out by all ambulance staff across our country. Their roles are of incredible importance and the Government recognises the invaluable work they carry out.
As the deputy is aware, the National Ambulance Service Representative Association (NASRA) is not recognised by the HSE and does not have negotiating rights. The main union which is recognised by the HSE for ambulance front line grades is SIPTU. Fórsa and Unite also represent ambulance grades and the HSE recognises these unions' rights to negotiate on behalf of their ambulance staff members.
While individuals have a right to membership of any trade union, not all unions must be recognised by the employer. Industrial relations policy has had a long-standing objective of avoiding fragmentation in worker representation in public sector employments, and the trade union movement generally, to facilitate the orderly conduct of negotiations and other aspects of industrial relations. Government policy supports the consolidation of trade unions, for example, as was seen in the formation of Fórsa.
NASRA is not recognised by the HSE and thus the HSE cannot negotiate with them on behalf of their ambulance worker members.
The Government is aware of the ongoing dispute amongst ambulance staff and the HSE and urges all parties to work on resolving any disputes through the appropriate forums, and to uphold industrial peace in the interests of users of our health service.
