SIPTU members in working in Camphill Communities, Duffcarrig, county Wexford have voted unanimously in favour of industrial action in a dispute over funding and working conditions. The first 24-hour stoppage will take place from 8.00 a.m. on Friday, 12th March. SIPTU Industrial Organiser, Ger Malone, said: “The vote for industrial action is the result of long standing industrial relations issues and a grossly deficient funding model underwritten by the Health Service Executive (HSE) which members say is failing the residents and staff. Our members are stretched too thin and beyond their capacity, working excessive hours with many suffering from various stress related illnesses, including burnout and anxiety. It appears that the HSE and management believe they can replicate a HSE model with the same standards for a fraction of the cost and with half the staff. It is not realistic or sustainable and workers are at breaking point.” “Management is constantly imposing HSE policies but cutting or reducing staff benefits including slashing sick pay provision and other terms and conditions in the middle of a pandemic. The HSE should know what it costs to fund these services in order to get the quality of care that our most vulnerable citizens and professional care workers deserve.” She added: “The reality is that SIPTU members in this Camphill community are providing a first-class service and home for very vulnerable residents. However, they firmly believe that if adequate staffing levels and funding are not put in place this “home from home” model will collapse.”
SIPTU members in Camphill Community in Wexford vote for strike action
