Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) expresses its response to the recent outcome of the member ballot conducted by Fórsa, the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, and SIPTU, which revealed overwhelming support for strike action. The decision to strike comes as no surprise, given the persisting issue of pay parity within the healthcare sector, causing a recruitment crisis. As a result, IWA is calling on the government to intervene to prevent further suffering of the most vulnerable individuals in our society.

IWA continues to engage with SIPTU regarding this matter, and unwavering support for its employees remains unambiguous. The current pay gap of €4.20 per hour between section 39 employees and HSE employees is a stark reminder of the disparity faced by those working on behalf of the HSE to deliver crucial services to people with disabilities across Ireland.

Pay parity is not merely an issue of fairness and recognising the value of dedicated professionals but also has dire consequences for the recruitment of qualified individuals into the sector. The ongoing crisis jeopardizes the quality of specialized care provided to people with disabilities, and urgent action is required to address this systemic problem.

Irish Wheelchair Association implores the government to take immediate steps to rectify pay inequity, ensure fair treatment of its employees, and safeguard the rights and well-being of the individuals it serves.

If you are someone who avails of a service of Irish Wheelchair Association and are concerned about this issue please contact your local coordinator.