The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) has called for changes to mileage rates to reflect the soaring cost of fuel.
In a letter to the HSE's Director of Human Resources, INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha asked that the banding system for travel be set aside and that the highest rates be applied for the duration of the current fuel crisis.
Ms Ní Sheaghdha said they had been inundated with calls from nurses and midwives who are providing vital care in the community using their own personal vehicles.
"These essential workers must not be forgotten during this crisis," she said.
"Nurses and midwives working in the community should not be expected to front the cost of providing essential services to people in their own homes."
"The INMO believes that the highest rate of mileage should apply during the fuel crisis," Ms Ní Sheaghdha added.
Asked about the INMO's request, a spokesperson for the HSE said the query would be best placed with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has been contacted for comment.
The INMO's request for mileage changes was first reported by the Irish Independent.
