National Ambulance Service Faces «Very Challenging» 24-Hour Strike, Patient Safety at Risk
A 24-hour strike by over half of National Ambulance Service staff begins Tuesday, risking patient safety. Emergency calls (999/112) will be covered, prioritizing critical cases. The dispute involves 2,000 staff over pay and modernization, with further strikes planned if unresolved.
The National Ambulance Service (NAS) anticipates a «very challenging» 24-hour strike by ambulance staff starting Tuesday, posing a risk to patient safety. Over half of normally rostered staff are expected to strike. Emergency cover will be maintained, and patients needing urgent medical assistance should still contact 999 or 112.
NAS clinical director Dr. Cathal O’Donnell stated that additional clinical staff, including managers, will provide phone advice, and some private services will be utilized. With approximately 1,100 emergency calls daily, 42 percent are highest priority. Delays are inevitable, and O’Donnell expressed worry about patient safety. Priority will be given to time-sensitive cases like cardiac arrest and life-threatening injuries. Patients are advised to consider alternative transport to emergency departments or seek help from GPs, injury units, or pharmacies if possible.
The strike, from 8 am Tuesday to 8 am Wednesday, involves about 2,000 Siptu and Unite members. The long-running dispute concerns grading and pay related to a 2020 modernization program. Staff rejected two Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) proposals last year, which included 3-14 percent pay increases. Unions argue the proposals were tied to future work practice changes without addressing existing ones. The HSE has called for a return to WRC or Labour Court talks, but unions demand resolution of historic issues first. If unresolved, a 48-hour strike is scheduled for next Tuesday, followed by a 72-hour strike the week after, which O’Donnell warned would pose even greater risks.