Mulherin warns 'curtains' for Croke Park deal if Ballina hospital row is not resolved

And the Ballina TD predicted that if the problem in Ballina District Hospital is not resolved "then it is curtains for the Croke Park Agreement”.

The beds are due to be closed on Friday despite the fact that the HSE has funding to keep the Ballina unit open and the hospital staff are not against contract cleaners coming in, said Deputy Mulherin.

However, SIPTU is refusing to allow contract cleaners to carry out the work and a compromise that would have involved Home Help operatives doing the work fell through over scheduling difficulties.

Deputy Mulherin explained that no member of staff at Ballina Hospital is losing their job – in fact staff has agreed to new work practices to allow the introduction of contract cleaners.
Step up to the plate

“In these difficult times, everybody has to step up to the plate. We have the money, we have a solution and the staff is in agreement and it is now up to the Union to come on board and ensure the future of Ballina District Hospital.”

Deputy Mulherin continued: “Today, there are16 people waiting on beds in A and E at Mayo General Hospital.  The blockage in beds is because of not having step down beds such as Ballina.

“I am appealing to the Union to allow contract cleaners to begin work in Ballina hospital even if it is only on a temporary basis until some other solution can be found.

“The best interests of patients, and the delivery of health care, should be paramount in all of this - not just for politicians - but for unions also who represent health care workers.

“I believe what is happening at Ballina District Hospital is a crucial test of whether the Croke Park Agreement is working or not.  If the problem in Ballina District Hospital is not resolved then it is curtains for the Croke Park Agreement.”

Deputy Mulherin added that she is continuing to meet with Minister for Health James Reilly TD in a bid to find a resolution to the issue.