Late last year Fórsa members working for the HSE and Section 38 Voluntary Hospitals voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action.

The ballot was organised in response to the HSE's suppression of thousands of vacant posts as part of their ‘Pay and Numbers’ strategy which the union has called a ‘recruitment embargo’ by any other name. 93.6% voted in favour of industrial action, with a turnout of 60.8%.

The Health & Welfare Divisional Executive Committee (DEC) will meet next week to discuss the next steps. 

Ashley Connolly, the head of Fórsa’s Health & Welfare division, said "At this time of year our members go above and beyond to support patients and colleagues across the health services, when hospitals face a surge in attendance and infections. We are mindful that as ever, especially when there is additional pressures on the health service, patient safety always comes first."

"Nonetheless, our members voted for industrial action because the continuing recruitment embargo, disguised as the HSE's 'Pay and Numbers' strategy, is still placing services and staff under huge pressure. In fact, it is during these times that the cracks begin to grow."

Fórsa national secretary Linda Kelly added: “We know that our members are resolute on this issue. The HSE cannot continue to ignore the very real impact of this ill thought-out strategy. Without the vital services provided by our members working in admin roles and as HSCPs the health system would be paralysed." 

In 2024 union members spoke out about the impact the reduction in staff numbers has had on them and their work, with many talking about huge stress and low morale, as well as their fears for patients. In the run up to the ballot on industrial action members showed their collective resolve at protests that took place outside 14 hospitals around the country.

Watch members react to the ballot result in December here.

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