SIPTU members working as healthcare assistants (HCAs) in the HSE Home Support Service across Donegal, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick have voted overwhelmingly for strike action.
The union has accused the HSE of failing to honour national agreements on terms and conditions.
According to SIPTU, the issues which remain unresolved include underpayments dating back to 2018 and the non-implementation of rostering agreements.
"There are also ongoing breaches of the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997, resulting in worker burnout due to excessive split shifts and inadequate breaks," said SIPTU Organiser, Graham Macken
"The dispute also concerns the continued use of contractors, which we believe is inconsistent with the HSE's commitments under the Public Service Agreement and previous Workplace Relations Commission agreements," Mr Macken said.
The ballot of workers was counted today and delivered a 95% mandate for industrial action, up to and including strike action.
SIPTU said its HSE Home Support strike committee will meet shortly to set dates for industrial action.
Speaking on RTÉ Six One, Bernard Gloster, HSE, CEO said the two most important parts of the home help service are the people who receive that service, "and the people who provide it for whom I have the greatest of respect."
"I believe with the machinery and mechanisms that are available, I'm sure we will come to a sensible resolution to that issue," Mr Gloster said.
