Tensions are at breaking point in University Hospital Waterford as the UNITE work-to-rule industrial action moves into its third week.
Yesterday, WLR News reported that General Manager, Ben O'Sullivan had issued an apology to in-patients.
The apology came on foot of reported delays in patients receiving their meals in a timely manner in the wards.
It was stated that the delays were as a result of the impacts felt by the industrial action taken by UNITE.
Response from UNITE
Speaking to WLR News, Regional Officer with UNITE, Eoin Drummy denied that this was the case.
He said, in his view, any delays being experienced are as a result of the hospital failing to put a proper contingency plan in place.
Such a plan, he says, was needed when catering, portering, and laundry staff are working to the terms of their contract, and not beyond.
He added that the apology from Mr. O' Sullivan showed accountability, but that an apology is due to staff impacted.
Catering staff walk
At lunchtime today, Friday June 14th, catering staff walked off the floor as a dispute with University Hospital Waterford spilled over.
It was reported to WLR that this dispute was ignited when an agency manager was brought in to liaise with HSE staff.
Shortly after walking, it was confirmed that staff had returned to their posts.
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