Nurses' group demands end to recruitment moratorium

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation says the Government has to stop ignoring its calls to lift the moratorium on recruitment.

An internal report on the impact of the recruitment ban in the HSE West region has found it is having a bigger effect on frontline nursing services than on management posts.

The INMO claims the Western region is just a typical example of what is happening in other parts of the country.

Speaking today Phil Ní Sheaghdha, Director of Industrial Relations said: "The INMO have been calling for an exemption for frontline nursing and midwifery posts from this moratorium since its introduction.

"This report confirms what we already know; that frontline nursing and midwifery staff are required to provide essential healthcare safely.

"The Minister for Health and Children and the CEO of the HSE have ignored the voice of frontline staff who have been calling for the lifting of the moratorium.

"This is now a matter for government and the decision has to be taken before more essential services are cut Frontline nursing and midwifery posts have not been protected or prioritised from the worst effects of this moratorium, and this report confirms that.

"This decision has to be made immediately."