Talks between the government and the nurses unions have collapsed.
In a statement that was released on Twitter, Phil Ní Sheaghdha, INMO General Secretary said: “Ireland’s nurses and midwives are asking simple questions. Where is the Taoiseach? Where is the Minister for Finance? There is a vacuum of political leadership. The largest strike in the health service’s history looms and our political leaders are nowhere to be seen.”
It adds: “With a heavy heart, strike preparations continue. As ever, we are available to talk any time, but we are still waiting for the government to make realistic proposals to avert this strike.”
Members' update: Strike preparations continue for January 30th. Talks end at WRC after three days.
No proposals from government.
— Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation (@INMO_IRL) January 25, 2019
Phil Ní Sheaghdha said: "There is a vacuum of political leadership. Where is an Taoiseach? Where is the Minister for Finance?
"The biggest-ever strike in the health service is looming and our political leaders are nowhere to be seen."
@campaignforleo @Paschald pic.twitter.com/v7Mvi2Lcod
— Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation (@INMO_IRL) January 25, 2019
The latest round of negotiations were facilitated by the Workplace Relations Commission and after failing to reach an agreement, industrial action is scheduled for next Wednesday, 30 January.
At present, no further talks are planned.
The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) has over 40,000 members. Over 90% of members that were recently polled voted in favour of industrial action.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ podcast – listen to the latest episode now!
