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Healthcare assistants in Limerick and Clare postpone strike action

The issues in the dispute include underpayments and rostering agreements
The issues in the dispute include underpayments and rostering agreements

A 24-hour strike involving healthcare assistants (HCAs) in HSE Home Support Services in Limerick and Clare, set for tomorrow, has been suspended to allow for talks after progress was made between management and SIPTU.

The union had accused the HSE of failing to honour national agreements on terms and conditions.

The issues included underpayments dating back to 2018 and the non-implementation of rostering agreements.

Last month, SIPTU announced that members working as HCAs in the HSE Home Support Service across counties Donegal, Clare, Limerick, Cork and Kerry would engage in strike action.

The first of the work stoppages was due to take place in Donegal last week but it was also suspended.

"The progress we have made following the public announcement of planned industrial action follows years of unresolved issues regarding underpayments, rostering and working conditions," said SIPTU Organiser Graham Macken.

"Strikes remain scheduled for later this week and next week, pending the conclusion of talks scheduled to take place tomorrow between SIPTU and the HSE," Mr Macken said.

The HSE previously said that it believed there are agreed processes provided within the public service agreement to address the matters.

"The HSE is of the view that there is agreement on many of the issues, and these are being progressed in all areas," a spokesperson said at the time.