HSE defers plans to cut 52 agency nurses’ jobs

The HSE has agreed to defer plans to axe 52 agency nurses in Cork University Hospital (CUH) and Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH) in order to enter into up a week of negotiations with the Irish Nurses’ and Midwives Organisation (INMO).

INMO industrial relations officer Patsy Doyle said she will be seeking the retention of all staff, and the maintenance of all services, in Cork, in the interests of patients.

“We will be calling for a comprehensive, independent risk assessment to be carried out, before any staffing reductions are implemented, to assess the implications for safe care and this report to be made public and considered by all relevant parties.”