HSC prepared for nurses' industrial action
PLANS are already in place to minimise the impact of a nurses' strike on users, said Health and Social Care in the wake of the Royal College of Nursing union's rejection of the most recent pay offer.
More than 90% of voting members of the union turned the offer down, and of those a large majority – 90% – said they would be prepared to take industrial action.
'HSC remains hopeful that industrial action can be avoided,' said a committee spokesperson.
'Should it proceed, there are contingency plans in place which would minimise the impact on service users.'
The union would give notice detailing the proposed nature and timings of any action being taken and this would allow HSC to ensure as far as possible that delivery of its services were not unduly compromised.
'While it is possible that there would be some disruption to normal service, which could include the postponement of non-critical appointments and/or treatments, focus would remain on providing uninterrupted core services.'
HSC president Heidi Soulsby said that the committee remained of the view that is was in all parties' interest to resolve the issue as soon as possible.
'We are aware that the Policy & Resources Committee has lodged a formal dispute with the Industrial Disputes Officer and we hope that this will facilitate a swift and fair resolution,' she said.
'We are concerned that the possibility of industrial action has been raised but remain hopeful that this can be avoided.
'Should such action be taken, HSC will work closely with the Unions and colleagues to ensure that as far as possible any disruption to the public is minimised.'
