Labour Court backs HSE West maintenance transfer after four staff are in place

The Labour Court recommended that HSE West transfer maintenance duties to the Community Health Office once four additional staff are in place. The recommendation, dated 2 April 2019, concerned work for district hospitals and a community nursing unit that was proposed to move from Mayo University Hospital’s maintenance team. The 32 Maintenance Staff (Craft & Operatives), represented by Connect and SIPTU, argued that the change was presented as a done deal and could reduce overtime. The Court criticised engagement after the decision had been made, but noted that discussions had since taken place and no identifiable loss had been raised. HSE West said any loss would be compensated under the Public Service Agreement.