Proposed cuts in health service provoke clashes

The Western Health Board clashed again with the Department of Health and health service unions yesterday after details emerged of the scope of the planned lay-offs.

The health board released a list of 169 temporary workers it is planning to sack as part of the 1.15m euro cutback in its budget demanded by the department. The lay-offs include nurses, ward attendants, laboratory staff and clerical workers.

The health board was instructed to not fill 85 clerical and administrative jobs this year to meet its budgetary requirements. Across the country, the department has ordered 800 health board posts remain vacant in a bid to save 10m euro as part of a 38m euro cutbacks package.

But the board responded by saying it would need to lay off 200 temporary workers, sparking a row with the Department of Health.

Although the 169 layoffs is a lower figure than was originally mooted, health services unions said they were alarmed at the scope of the job cuts.

IMPACT threatened industrial action if the board proceeded with its plans to sack the workers.

The Irish Hospital Consultants Association also expressed concern at the cuts, saying it would have an impact on patient services.

IMPACT official Shay Clinton demanded to meet WHB management early next week to discuss the proposed cuts.

Criticising the Western Health Board for sending out letters to staff telling them their contracts would not be renewed, he said IMPACT had asked for management to hold off until full consultation took place.

Last night, the Western Health Board said it would not be commenting on the situation.