SINN Fein Senator Paul Gavan has called on the government to deliver a real reward to front- line health workers in recognition of their role in the fight against Covid.
Speaking in response to stalled negotiations between unions and the HSE, Senator Gavan demanded an immediate intervention from the Minister of Health. “Front-line workers across our health service took the fight to Covid and put their lives on the line to protect our loved ones and our communities. In Limerick city staff in University Hospital Limerick and St John’s worked above and beyond the call of duty to save lives and contain the pandemic.”
“They deserve more than just applause from this government, and I am calling on the Minister to intervene to ensure a meaningful reward is given to these workers. That reward could be in the way of a financial bonus, additional leave or some combination of similar measures. But nothing will happen without political will from the government.”
Unions had sought some form of special recognition for healthcare staff, dating back to late 2020. Both the Taoiseach and Tánaiste have previously indicated that they would support some recognition, but the HSE have failed to make any offer despite lengthy negotiations having already taken place.
Senator Gavan, a former union official with SIPTU, also pointed out that such recognition has already been given to health workers in the North of Ireland; “Front-line workers in the North of Ireland have been given a payment of €570 each in recognition of their vital role in fighting the pandemic. Workers in France and Denmark have also seen similar payments made. Yet here at home nursing and hospital support staff unions have now had to refer the matter to the Labour Court.”
Senator Gavan concluded “What does it say about this government that it can find money for tax reliefs for vulture funds but apparently cannot stump up a deal for our front-line heroes in the Health Service? They have got their priorities completely the wrong way around!”
