Health workers ballot threat over failure to open mental health units

Siptu health workers are threatening to ballot for industrial action unless unsuitable units are closed and “a state-of-the art” mental health unit in Killarney is opened, along with a second unused facility in Tralee.

Around €10m has been invested in the two facilities but both remain closed due to staffing shortages.

Siptu, with around 70 members connected to both facilities, say their proposals would free up nursing and other staff to work the re.