A 24-hour strike involving Health Care Assistants (HCAs) in the HSE Home Support Services in Limerick and Clare, set for tomorrow (Tuesday, 17th February), has been suspended after progress was made between management and SIPTU representatives regarding key dispute issues.
SIPTU Organiser, Graham Macken, said: “The progress we have made following the public announcement of planned industrial action follows years of unresolved issues regarding underpayments, rostering and working conditions.
“Strikes remain scheduled for later this week and next week, pending the conclusion of talks scheduled to take place tomorrow (Tuesday, 17th February) between SIPTU and the HSE. SIPTU members, employed by the HSE Home Support Service, have accused their employer of violating national agreements on terms and conditions of employment.
He added: “Workers have spoken of severe burnout due to excessive split shifts and inadequate breaks, which SIPTU representatives say constitute clear breaches of the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997. This failure has become a detriment to the HCAs and the clients they care for and has negatively impacted services.”
SIPTU Sector Organiser, Liz Cloherty, said: “Tomorrow’s strike action has been suspended to allow for further intensive talks aimed at reaching an agreement on all outstanding matters. Our members provide an invaluable service in their communities, which must be respected and recognised. We hope the HSE will honour its commitments to our members and avoid the need for industrial action.”