5,000 community and voluntary sector agency health workers announce indefinite strike

Workers employed in a range of health professional, clinical, clerical and administrative grades, are on lesser terms and conditions than their HSE counterparts.

At least 5,000 health workers employed by state-funded community and voluntary sector agencies have announced plans for an indefinite strike.

The action commencing on October 17 is related to a pay dispute over different rates paid to the workers compared with counterparts employed directly by the state. Union representatives say the disparity is in excess of 10% for many workers.