Significant impact as ambulance service strike to begin

Around 2,000 workers from the National Ambulance Service, including emergency medical technicians, paramedics, advanced paramedics, specialist paramedics, and supervisors, are set to begin a 24-hour strike starting at 8 a.m. The industrial action, organized by unions SIPTU and Unite, is in response to a pay dispute involving the failure to implement updated salary scales recommended by an independent report. Pickets will be placed at ambulance bases nationwide, and the Health Service Executive (HSE) has warned of significant disruption, particularly affecting response times for non-life-threatening calls. The HSE has activated a contingency plan prioritizing emergency cases such as cardiac or respiratory arrests and serious trauma incidents, ensuring the 999 emergency phone service remains fully operational. However, the public is urged to consider alternative healthcare options including injury units, GP surgeries, pharmacies, and mental health supports. Professor Cathal O’Donnell, Clinical Director of the National Ambulance Service, described the day as “very challenging” and advised that some patients might reach hospitals faster by making their own way rather than waiting for ambulance services. The dispute centers on the unions’ claim that the HSE has neglected to update salary scales to reflect increased responsibilities and workload changes over the past two decades. SIPTU Ambulance Sector Organiser John McCamley emphasized the depth of frustration among members, citing their long-standing commitment to professionalizing and modernizing the service. The strike follows a recent work-to-rule action and is part of a broader campaign, with additional stoppages planned for later in May and June. Unite regional officer Eoin Drummey called on the HSE to resolve the dispute immediately and without preconditions, stressing that members prefer frontline work but have been compelled to strike to secure recognition for their vital contributions. The HSE expressed regret over the industrial action and reiterated its commitment to resolving the dispute through ongoing negotiations.