James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Again, the Minister for Health, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, is disappointed the MLSA has initiated strike action. Its vital role and presence in clinical settings across the country was suspended last week, causing disruption across the health service. Its decision to strike was contrary to its commitment under Building Momentum, which states that parties to Building Momentum agree that the industrial peace will be maintained within the lifetime of the agreement. The Minister has outlined that the Department of Health is bound by the existing pay agreement, Building Momentum, which clearly states that sectoral bargaining is the only mechanism for addressing outstanding claims within the lifetime of the agreement. I assure the Senator that the health service management, in association with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, remain committed to engaging with the MLSA. I reiterate how significant its presence is across the health service and the Minister for Health will continue to engage with the MLSA and make every effort to ensure a resolution is found as soon as possible.