HSE talks to address 24-hour social work cover

TALKS between the Health Service Executive (HSE) and unions are expected to begin by the end of this month regarding the provision of 24-hour social work cover in all parts of the country.

The move follows a year-long deliberation process by a national working group set up to examine the feasibility of introducing after-hours and weekend child welfare and protection.

A HSE statement confirmed the working group has concluded its report and recommended it for adoption: “The report is currently at an advanced stage of consideration within the HSE with a view to early commencement of discussions with other key stakeholders including unions and Government.”