ELECTIVE SURGERIES AT some hospitals might have to be postponed because of a standoff between the HSE and agency nursing staff.

Following a decision by the HSE to reduce the rates of pay for agency and support staff, some nursing unions have advised members not to agree to work for lower rates.

RTÉ reports that 14 of the 16 agency midwives at Cork University Hospital announced that they were unavailable for work today. The HSE confirmed that a small number hospitals may need to reschedule elective surgeries.

The HSE says it will save €40 million a year by cutting the pay rates for support staff.

IrishHealth.ie reports that agency staff are being used in large numbers to fill in for staff vacancies.

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More

Row between HSE and agency staff could affect surgeries

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.