LRC intervenes in HSE-Impact jobs freeze row

THE Labour Relations Commission (LRC) has intervened in a dispute between the trade union Impact and the Health Service Executive (HSE) over the health service jobs freeze. It has invited both sides to talks this afternoon.

Impact welcomed the intervention. The commission told the union it was aware of the seriousness of the effects of the three-month-old dispute. The HSE also welcomed the move and looked forward to “positive outcomes” for both sides.

HSE human resources manager Sean McGrath said that while efficiencies across the service were being achieved, the authority continued to employ staff and develop services. He said the main focus until now had been on “back office activities” in areas such as overtime and travel, so as to avoid any impact on clinical areas.