SIPTU members in Section 39 organisations are to serve notice tomorrow (Thursday, 1st February) of industrial action, up to and including strike action, to commence with a one-day stoppage on Wednesday, 14th February, in a dispute over pay restoration. SIPTU Health Divisional Organiser, Paul Bell, said: “It is regrettable that our members have been left with no option but to take strike action. It is also deeply disappointing that representatives from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) refused to attend today’s Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health. As the paymasters, their input into resolving this dispute is absolutely critical. He added: “The Government now has a two-week window to bring DPER to the table and face up to its responsibilities to Section 39 workers, their patients and their families. As always, our members are very much focused on the needs of the patients that they care for, and their families and are heartened by their messages of support over the last number of weeks.” “SIPTU representatives remain ready, willing and able to engage in a meaningful manner with stakeholders to agree a sustainable solution that is underpinned by clearly defined timelines. This is the only way to avert strike action and avoid disruption to vital health and social services.” SIPTU members in the following organisations will participate in the strike action on Valentine’s Day outside the Department of Health in Dublin; Rehab Ireland, the Cheshire Foundation, Western Care in County Mayo, St Joseph’s Foundation in County Cork, SOS Kilkenny, Ability West, Wicklow Community and Family Services, SOS Workshops and Marymount University Hospital and Hospice, Curraheen, County Cork.
SIPTU representatives serve notice of strike action in Section 39 organisations
