SIPTU Ambulance Sector representatives have today (Thursday, 20th December) confirmed that agreement has been secured on the conduct of an independent review of the role and responsibilities of ambulance professionals as part of the Public Service Stability Agreement. SIPTU Health Division Organiser, Paul Bell, said: “Our representatives have reached agreement with the management of the National Ambulance Service and the Health Service Executive (HSE) for the application of a joint independent process which will examine the roles, responsibilities, duties and skillset of ambulance professionals. “It has been the view of the members of the SIPTU Health Division Ambulance Sector that the development of their role in recent years is not currently fully recognised by management. Ambulance professionals make a major contribution in the delivery of frontline medical services.” He added: “The independent review of the role of ambulance professionals will start in January 2019 and conclude in June 2019. The SIPTU Health Division and HSE have agreed the review will cover the roles of Advanced Paramedic, Paramedic and Emergency Medical Technician in the National Ambulance Service.” SIPTU Sector Organiser, Miriam Hamilton, said: “SIPTU representatives are committed to working within the terms of the Public Service Stability Agreement to bring about full pay restoration and progression for our members.” She added: “Should the independent review confirm that our members are not on the correct pay scale for their contribution, or if management seek productivity increases outside the terms of the Public Service Stability Agreement, then our members will seek pay or grade recalibration.” Irish Ambulance Representative Council (IARC) Chairperson, Hillery Collins, said: “The key objective of this process is to have ambulance professionals finally recognised as professionals. This will include our members being remunerated appropriately and the prioritisation of their continuous professional development so they are fully prepared to meet the challenges the health service faces in the coming years.”
SIPTU secures review of role and responsibilities of ambulance professionals
