Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 July 2009
64 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps being taken to resolve the industrial dispute at Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26947/09]
View answerThe issue raised by the Deputy relates to an internal operational matter in Portiuncula Hospital which is being managed by the HSE. However, my Department has been informed by the HSE that concerns were raised by senior nurse management in relation to communication, morale and working relations, and the hospital management engaged a third party to undertake a review which would include recommendations as appropriate. This approach was agreed with the Irish Nurse's Organisation (INO) who advised their members to participate in the process.
This process involved an independent review of the HSE Disciplinary Procedure in this case, with recommendations for future situations and that an agreed mediator would be appointed to manage an orderly return to work for those Assistant Directors of Nursing (ADoNs) involved.
Mediation hearings were held on 9th December 2008 and 12th January 2009. They were organised by the Health Service Executive — Employers Agency (HSEEA), but did not prove successful. HSE Management contacted the INO and confirmed its intention to attend conciliation with a view to securing an acceptable accommodation which will allow for the orderly return to work of the five ADoNs.
The dispute was referred to the Labour Court on 24th March 2009. The recommendation of the Labour Court, which was received on 26th June 2009, was that the mediation process should be resumed and concluded within one month. The Court has nominated a mediator to undertake this process.
