National Ambulance Service workers engaging in strike in Longford and Midlands today
The strike is taking place after criticism from SIPTU and Unite members of the Government
National Ambulance Service workers are taking part in protests today in Longford and in surrounding town such as Athlone, Carrick-on-Shannon in the Midlands region.
The escalating industrial dispute is in relation to a pay dispute with SIPTU and Unite members critical of Government commitments with personnel taking to the picket lines from 8am this morning.
The staging of the 24-hour strike is over a pay dispute, with union members saying Government commitments haven’t been followed through.
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The industrial action involves personnel such as as emergency medical technicians, paramedics, advanced paramedics, paramedic specialists and paramedic supervisors.
A decision was made to take industrial action and further strike action by SIPTU and Unite members following a ballot last month.
There are approximately 2,000 members taking part in the strike and involved in the dispute.
SIPTU and Unite members have called for enhanced pay scales to "reflect the growing professionalisation of the service", and a 5% pay increase.
Patients looking for an ambulance today who are not in need of emergency or urgent care have been advised to expect lengthy delays.