Ambulance crews have taken to the picket lines in an escalating pay dispute with the HSE.
Union officials say the strike action stems from the HSE’s failure to implement the recommendations of an independent report calling for updated salary scales to reflect increased responsibilities and heavier workloads.
Representatives for frontline staff say workers have been waiting almost six years for their expertise and expanded roles to be properly recognised and rewarded.
The HSE insists the only way to resolve the dispute is through the State’s industrial relations mechanisms, rather than through strike action.
Emergency calls will not be affected by today’s 24-hour industrial action. However, unions have warned that further 48-hour and 72-hour work stoppages are planned for later this month if the dispute remains unresolved.
