Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 April 2026
198. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Health the steps she has taken to directly address the major shortfall in staffing in the National Ambulance Service; the steps she is taking to avert impending planned strike action by National Ambulance Service workers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28375/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI was disappointed to learn that SIPTU and UNITE notified the HSE of their decision to proceed with industrial action, up to an including potential strike action, in the National Ambulance Service.
This issue has been the subject of extensive engagement over the last two years, through the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court. My Department, the HSE and Department of Public Expenditure (DPER) accepted both the WRC proposals and the subsequent Labour Court Recommendation in full and both unions also recommended acceptance by their members.
My Department, the HSE and DPER all remain fully committed to the dispute-resolution mechanisms under the Public Service Agreement 2024–2026. The clear priority must be the safety of patients and the continuity of emergency services. I therefore, strongly urge all parties to re-engage constructively and to use the established State mechanisms to bring this matter to resolution in the interest of the public.
Government investment in recent years has supported total NAS staff growth of 30% since 2020, representing a significant increase for the service. I remain committed to supporting continued development of NAS to build further capacity, with an allocation for NAS in 2026 to support HSE plans for an additional 263 posts, representing a €20 million investment. The additional posts in 2026, will support further frontline ambulance capacity as well as further development of NAS alternative care pathways, including Community Paramedic services.
