Fórsa has advised members working in HSE services to download and retain a copy of the newly agreed principles document on extended services, which outlines your rights and protections where changes to rosters or working hours are being proposed.  

In a memo to members issued on 23rd June, Fórsa advised that no automatic changes can take place, and management must follow a clearly defined process before any service or rostering arrangements can be altered. The agreement was reached following several weeks of negotiation between health unions and the HSE and has since been issued to local managers. 

For staff employed before 16th December 2008, and who have not been promoted since, there is no obligation to accept changes to your working arrangements. Any changes must be made on a strictly voluntary basis. 

For those employed after that date, or who have been promoted since, you may be asked to consider new roster arrangements, but only after the full procedure in the agreed document has been followed. 

Where local disagreements arise, the agreement provides for a formal disputes process. This includes referral to a Joint Review Group, and if necessary, to an independent adjudicator. Critically, any proposed service extensions must be based on safe staffing levels. 

The HSE had initially proposed changes that would have undermined long-standing protections set out in the 2008 Framework Agreement. Fórsa and other health unions were clear that these would not be accepted. The final agreement ensures that staff protections remain in place and that any proposed changes must be negotiated through the agreed industrial relations process. 

If you are approached by management about changes to your roster or hours, contact your Fórsa workplace representative immediately for advice and support. 

You can view and download a copy of the agreement here.

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