SIPTU welcomes that changes to ambulance services in South West will not proceed

SIPTU representatives have today (Thursday, 19th September) welcomed correspondence from management at the National Ambulance Service confirming that changes to rosters planned for the South West region will not be implemented.

SIPTU Sector Organiser, John McCamley, said: “The communication to SIPTU representatives confirms that a process of engagement to reach an agreement on the staffing of non-rostered days for National Ambulance Service staff in the South West region will be set up without delay.

“We welcome the decision of National Ambulance Service management to not implement the proposed roster changes next week. Our members had genuine concerns that the planned changes would have had a detrimental impact on the ambulance service in the region. The outlined process will give both parties a pathway to reaching an agreement on how non-rostered days will be staffed to the benefit of the communities our members serve.”

McCamley added: “The decision to allow for a process of engagement on this issue before implementing any changes results from our members’ determination to advocate for the service they work in.”

SIPTU wants clarity on Minister for Health’s statement on ambulance cuts in South West

SIPTU has called on the management of the National Ambulance Service to clarify media reports that the Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, has said that ambulance services in the South West region will not be reduced.

SIPTU Sector Organiser, John McCamley, said: “The decision of the management of the National Ambulance Service to withdraw the provision of cover for non-rostered working days will affect 15 shifts in 14 ambulance stations across the South West. This change is scheduled to occur next week as the National Ambulance Service claims it does not have the funding to continue staffing this cover.

“SIPTU representatives have asked for clarity regarding the Minister’s statement. Does it mean the Department of Health is providing extra funding to provide for these 15 ambulance shifts going forward? I believe SIPTU members, and the people of Cork and Kerry, have a right to know if their ambulance services are to be diminished from next week resulting in longer response times because additional funding will not be provided from the Department of Health.”

SIPTU Organiser, Rory Hawkins, said: “SIPTU calls on the National Ambulance Service as the employer to engage with this union as a matter of urgency. SIPTU members working in the National Ambulance Service want to provide quality service to the people of the South West but additional funding and staffing are required.”