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.”

The cuts were due to come into effect from tomorrow with the INMO claiming that any such move would be in clear violation of the Croke Park Agreement.

Meanwhile, the HSE has said patient safety and maintaining services is the priority for CUH when managing its allocated resources during 2011.

Both hospitals employ more than 1,400 whole time equivalent nurses and midwives.

In a statement the HSE said the number of agency staff varies throughout the year depending on the hospitals requirements.

“Due to a number of seasonal factors including increased ED activity, Norovirus (vomiting bug) and flu presentations, as well as cover for staff on sick / maternity leave, there was an exceptionally high level of agency staffing during the early part of 2011. The demands for agency staff, and the level of expenditure available for same, must be balanced for the whole year and managed on an ongoing basis to ensure CUH and CUMH can retain their services when necessary.”

The statement added that staff at CUH are aware of the requirement to live within the hospital’s resources and are to be commended for their professionalism, commitment to their patients and the initiative shown every day in order to minimise any impact on services.