Here's the news:

An EU study into health inequality in Europe highlights Ireland's two-tiered health system as contributing to disparities between high and low income earners when accessing healthcare, particularly effecting middle income earners.

The HSE has invited the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) to talks to resolve a pay dispute which saw 94% of INMO members reject PSPC proposals last month. The INMO said the proposals could not sufficiently address serious problems with staff recruitment and retention.

RTÉ reports that staff shortages led to withdrawal of fire engines on halloween and concerns over chronic understaffing in the fire service.

The Irish Times reports that the HSE has said recognising the Psychiatric Nurses Association (PNA) as a representative body for ambulance personnel would undermine agreements in place with Siptu.

Today's zen is a recommendation for the weekend courtesy of Niall, the Lost Moment exhibition at Gallery of Photography Ireland, which runs until Sunday. The exhibition includes photos, videos and other artifacts and locates the Civil Rights movement in Northern Ireland 50 years ago in the context of international protests at the time.

Finally, we would like to wish our colleague Aideen Sharry, who leaves the union today after many years of service in the unions accounts department all the very best for the future. 

Have a good weekend folks.