Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Mental Health James Browne TD has expressed disappointment following the breakdown of talks at the Workplace Relations Commission and has warned that patients will suffer.
Deputy Browne said, “The collapse of these talks is a very unwelcome development and will undoubtedly lead to service disruption and cancellations for patients. These are services which are already under immense strain, and any changes to day to day practices will impact on patients.
“Psychiatric nurses are an essential to the smooth running of our mental health services and they feel that their concerns are not being listened to. Their frustration is symptomatic of the situation right across the health service as a result of the government’s failure to recruit and retain the necessary staff.
“I know that the PNA wants the best for patients and is taking a stand in their best interests. I am calling on Minister Harris to engage with his officials and the PNA to bring this dispute to a resolution. The current impasse must be addressed”.
