UHG Emergency Department Staff Vote on Industrial Action Over Safety Concerns

Staff at the Emergency Department of University Hospital Galway (UHG) have initiated a ballot for potential industrial action due to what they describe as unsafe working conditions and unmanageable workloads. This decision has been prompted by ongoing concerns regarding staffing levels, which the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) claims have not been adequately addressed by the Health Service Executive (HSE) since July 2023.

The situation in the UHG Emergency Department has deteriorated significantly, according to the INMO. The union highlights that a combination of factors, including poor staff retention, ineffective recruitment campaigns, and numerous unfilled positions, has created an environment that compromises both employee welfare and patient safety.

Mary Fogarty, the INMO’s Assistant Director of Industrial Relations, emphasized the urgent need for action, stating, “The current staffing deficits are untenable, and patient safety is being put at risk.” The INMO represents the interests of nurses and midwives across Ireland, advocating for better working conditions and staffing levels.

Reports indicate that the UHG Emergency Department has struggled to maintain adequate staffing levels, which has raised alarms among healthcare professionals and the public alike. The union’s ballot for industrial action is seen as a last resort to compel the HSE to take immediate steps to rectify the staffing situation, ensuring both staff and patient safety are prioritized.

The INMO’s concerns reflect a broader issue within the Irish healthcare system, where many emergency departments are experiencing similar challenges. As hospitals face rising patient numbers and increased demand for services, the strain on staff resources is becoming more pronounced.

In light of these developments, the INMO is calling for a comprehensive review of staffing policies within the HSE, with particular emphasis on the need for effective recruitment and retention strategies. The union argues that without significant changes, the safety of patients and staff in emergency departments will remain at risk.

As the ballot progresses, the outcome will determine the next steps for UHG staff. The INMO’s commitment to advocating for better working conditions signals a growing frustration within the healthcare sector, as professionals seek to ensure that both they and their patients are protected in what has become an increasingly challenging environment.

The situation at UHG serves as a critical reminder of the importance of addressing staffing issues within healthcare settings, highlighting the need for urgent action to safeguard the health and safety of all involved.