Health Unions Report Low Morale Among 94% of Doctors, Cite Staffing and Safety Concerns

Four prominent health unions—the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO), SIPTU, Fórsa, and the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation (INMO)—have voiced significant concerns regarding low staff morale within the health service during appearances before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health.

The IMO highlighted that diminished morale adversely affects performance, trust, professional relationships, and the physical and mental well-being of healthcare workers, ultimately impacting patient care. IMO Chief Executive Susan Clyne presented findings from a recent IMO survey, revealing that 94% of doctors report low to moderate morale, with 67% indicating a deterioration over the past year.

Linda Kelly, Fórsa National Secretary for Health & Social Care Professionals, attributed the decline to a vicious circle created by understaffing, poor retention, inadequate consultation, and pay inequalities. She explained to the Committee that this leads to experienced staff departures, increased pressure on remaining personnel, further drops in morale, and challenges in sustaining services. Liz Cloherty, Sector Organiser for SIPTU's Health Division, noted the dramatic impact of the current cost of living crisis on Irish workers, particularly the approximately 78% of the HSE workforce who are predominantly women often facing childcare costs.

Tony Fitzpatrick, INMO Director of Professional Services, brought attention to the alarming statistic that over 12 nurses and midwives experience physical or verbal assaults in the workplace daily. He emphasized that the profound impact of these incidents on entire teams across both acute and community healthcare settings cannot be overlooked.