The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) is gearing up for a fight. Starting Monday, they’ll ask their members to vote on taking industrial action. Why? Because there aren’t enough nurses in Irish hospitals, and it’s hurting patients.
The INMO says the problem is widespread. Cancer wards, children’s units, and end-of-life care are all feeling the pinch. Big hospitals in Limerick and Cork are struggling to keep vital services running.
Caroline Gourley, the union’s president, paints a worrying picture. She says when nurses leave or retire, their jobs are left empty – even in busy emergency rooms. The HSE has rules about safe staffing levels, but they’re not being followed.
It’s not just full-time positions causing headaches. When nurses take time off, especially for maternity leave, their temporary replacements often don’t show up. This leaves the remaining staff stretched thin and puts patients at risk.
The union is fed up with hospitals expecting nurses to work overtime or pick up extra shifts out of goodwill. They’ve made it clear: that’s not going to happen anymore.
Phil Ní Sheaghdha, the INMO’s general secretary, didn’t mince words. She says patient care “from the start of life until the end” is now in danger because of what she calls a “moratorium” on hiring.
The root of the problem? A slow hiring process. The union claims it can take up to a year to bring new nurses on board, even when they’re desperately needed.
According to The Irish Examiner, this staffing crisis could spell trouble as winter approaches, typically a busy time for hospitals. With nurses ready to take action, Irish healthcare might be in for a bumpy ride.