Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response, which is greatly appreciated. However, this sector is in dire straits and demands immediate action. Up to 5,000 health and community workers who play a critical role in our society are on the brink of indefinite strike action from 17 October. While I accept that the 5% pay funding increase was put on the table, it certainly did not go far enough for many organisations. These dedicated section 39 workers employed in voluntary, not-for-profit health organisations have undergone rigorous training and education, as have their counterparts in section 38 organisations, such as the HSE workers. They work under the same conditions, face the same challenges and have the same responsibilities. Why are they treated differently? They are not asking for special treatment. All they are asking for is equal treatment. It is a simple and just request. No longer can they be ignored. I ask that the 5% that is on the table would be increased and that we would see a fairer offer being made to these section 39 workers.

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