IMPACT members working at St. James’s Hospital in Dublin have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action in a dispute with management over proposals to impose an annual charge of up to €500 for staff car parking.

The ballot result, issued at the end of February, found 91% in favour of industrial action. IMPACT has 470 members working at the hospital.

Management at St James’s told staff late last year that the planned introduction of car parking charges was linked to the construction of the new National Children’s Hospital on its campus. It said the development would result in a significant reduction in staff parking capacity. Siptu members at the hospital have also balloted in favour of industrial action.

IMPACT assistant general secretary Catherine Keogh explained that the key issue for staff was that management failed to consult with them about the proposed charge. “This is effectively a pay cut by another name, as staff would have to earn 800-1000 euro in wages to cover this cost.”

Catherine said that no charges have been imposed so far and that discussions are continuing with management about the proposed charges.