Dublin: The incoming government in Ireland is expected to face its first major challenge addressing the impending strike by health workers across the country. Several healthcare unions, including the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO), Fórsa, Connect, Unite, and SIPTU, are conducting opinion polls to determine the support for a potential strike. While SIPTU has not formally joined the strike plans, the other unions are mobilising support. The results of the union ballots are set to be announced shortly before the election, with lunchtime employee protests already taking place in hospitals nationwide.
The INMO and Fórsa are expected to announce their strike decisions on October 26. However, any formal action will be delayed by the required three-week notice period. Fórsa’s National Secretary, Ashley Connolly, has urged discussions on pressing issues such as pay and the restoration of positions cut under the hiring freeze. Connolly highlighted the immense pressure and frustration felt by healthcare staff, pointing to the significant concern over potential understaffing if vacant roles remain unfilled by the end of 2025.
Health workers have been stretched by challenges like COVID-19 and a major cyberattack, all while facing a moratorium on recruitment. This has intensified dissatisfaction within the sector, according to Connolly. Fórsa had previously raised concerns about the Health Service Executive’s (HSE) staffing policy in a parliamentary committee, warning of an impending breakdown in health sector operations. Fórsa represents clerical and administrative staff, along with health and social care professionals within the HSE.
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