Healthcare must value the carers - Nurses work-to-rule action at CUH

THE work-to-rule by nurses at Cork University Hospital is not about money but patient safety. Nonetheless, they remain the most overworked and underpaid among frontline HSE staff and often work long, punishing hours for relatively little pay.

The dispute concerns staffing levels at the oncology/ radiotherapy unit. Seven positions, including ward nurses and care assistants, are currently to be filled in the unit.

While the 21 oncology nurses involved have accepted an invitation to further talks at the Workplace Relations Commission, their action will continue in an effort to highlight their safety concerns over staffing levels.