Hospital specialists feel 'very let down' by HSE response to pay claim

More than 20 perfusionists across Ireland undertook industrial action yesterday, with two of three trade union members taking to the picket line outside Cork University Hospital (CUH).

Strike action was taken at five hospitals across the country in a bid to urge the HSE to implement recommendations made by the Labour Court earlier this year.

The pay scales for perfusionists, which are highly skilled healthcare professionals who operate heart-lung machines during life-saving surgeries, had been linked to medical laboratory scientists through an agreed arrangement since 1960.

However, this agreement was broken by the HSE two years ago, resulting in an effective pay cut for perfusionists.

As a result of an ongoing dispute, the Labour Court recommended this year that pay should be backdated to all perfusionists from January 1, 2024, when the agreement was broken.

Speaking to The Echo, industrial organiser with Fórsa, Séamus Smith said despite the cancellation of scheduled appointments on Tuesday, the HSE has failed to communicate with members regarding the dispute.

“The HSE has not been in contact as of yet,” said Mr Smith.

“If they fail to engage, there will be further strikes and stoppages next week, which will be expanded to 48-hours.

“Perfusionists are utterly dejected that the HSE would treat their grade in such a way, they feel very let down.

“They couldn’t believe that the HSE wouldn’t come to the table on the back of the recommendations made by the Labour Court.

“Normal duties will resume [on Wednesday] but discussions will be held and action will be taken from there."