Health and social care professional (HSCP) members in the affected professions, working directly in the HSE or a Section 38 organisation have been asked to vote yes to commence industrial action, up to and including strike action in an ongoing electronic ballot.

The decision was backed by a unanimous decision of the Health and Welfare Divisional Executive Committee (DEC) earlier this month, who are recommending that members vote yes.

Fórsa is encouraging members working in dietetics, orthoptics, occupational therapy, podiatry, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, social work and social care work are voting in a ballot for industrial action, regarding a dispute over the employers’ failure to implement the career pathway review.

Fórsa National Secretary Linda Kelly said the ballot was due to the “untenable position” of the employer and urged members to vote now to have their voice heard.

“In 2018, as part of the Community Healthcare Organisation Agreement, the HSE agreed to establish a Career Pathway Review. Five years on, there has been very little progress for our members and several key issues are now in dispute between the HSE and Fórsa. We have been left with no choice but we need members to cast their vote and have their voice heard” she said.

Thousands of members stand to benefit from the HSCP Career Pathway Review as it would bring enhanced career structures and promotional opportunities at every level of their profession.

Health and social care professionals have already received an email from the union with voting arrangements. If you have not yet received this email, Fórsa is asking members to email hwballot2023@forsa.ie with their employer, personal email and contact number.

In advance of casting your vote Fórsa is encouraging members to read this FAQ document.

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