Healthcare workers are being «deeply insulted» for not being offered financial recognition for their efforts to combat Covid-19 in today’s talks.
The unions of the heirs said HSE representatives claimed they had no mandate to make a presentation at a meeting of the Labor Relations Committee.
Union sources said that the demand for recognition may mean a financial reward or additional leave, but the matter is up for discussion.
In a statement, the union’s Health, Safety and Environmental Staff Committee said it had been seeking special recognition for employees since late last year.
They said health service employers in France, Northern Ireland and Denmark have offered employees bonuses or pay increases in recognition of their work and sacrifice over the past year.
«Both Taoiseach and Tánaiste have indicated that they will support some recognition, but no offer has yet been made,» the statement said.
Council President Tony Fitzpatrick said health care workers have done their best in the fight against Covid-19.
«They adapted quickly and worked beyond their normal responsibilities, and thousands contracted the virus in the line of duty,» he said.
“Our members are deeply offended that the government is still not making any proposals to recognize their efforts.
“We are now facing a fourth wave of Covid, with no sign of serious acknowledgment of the ongoing efforts of healthcare workers since the start of the pandemic.
«After all the hard work and extreme risk, it is begging to believe that HSE is once again back on the table empty-handed.»
The union committee includes the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organization, Siptu, Fórsa, the Irish Medical Organization, MLSA, Connect, Unite.
Another meeting is scheduled for August 5 at the Workplace Relations Committee.
Independent.ie contacted HSE for comment.