John Brassil (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

715. To ask the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the balloting of members of a union (details supplied) for industrial action in counties Cork and Kerry in view of the failure of the HSE to implement the revised contracts within the agreed timeframes; his views on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45597/18]

John Brassil (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

716. To ask the Minister for Health the steps he will take to prevent possible industrial action in respect of revised home care contracts in counties Cork and Kerry by members of a union (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45599/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 715 and 716 together.

My Department is aware of the ongoing conciliation between the HSE and the relevant trade unions in relation to the implementation of revised contracts for HSE employees in the Home help service. I understand that significant progress has been made but that recently delays have occurred in relation to specific issues, such as the implementation of the working time legislation. I understand that on 1 November 2018, the HSE and the relevant trade unions reached an agreement which should result in the lifting of any proposed industrial action.