Government urged to intervene to prevent IWA industrial action

The Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) is urgently calling on the government to intervene to prevent an industrial action scheduled for next Tuesday, October 17.

Over 5,000 people with disabilities, many of whom are already marginalised and often without a voice, will be the ones to suffer at the hands of the government if action is not taken immediately.

Currently, IWA employees are earning €4.20 less per hour than their HSE counterparts who earn €20.02, for carrying out the same work. This wage disparity must be rectified and pay parity restored to ensure fairness and equality in remuneration, the IWA says.

Industrial action is now set to take place across Irish Wheelchair Association's 58 locations, and 18 other Section 39 organisations, as their employees continue to fight for realignment of the pay rates with that of their counterparts in the Health Service Executive (HSE).

Irish Wheelchair Association emphasises that the government has a public sector duty to support and protect people with disabilities. As such, they are urging the Government to address their concerns today and take the necessary action to ensure the continuity of vital services for vulnerable individuals.

Disturbingly, a recent report by the Irish Wheelchair Association reveals that 75% of their members fear their services being withdrawn next week. This disheartening reality highlights the urgent need for the Government's intervention. Key services affected will be Assisted Living Services, Community Centre Services, School Leavers (education) services and Respite Services.

Michael Doyle, Acting Chief Operations Officer at Irish Wheelchair Association, said: “IWA employees don’t want to strike, it’s going to be hugely disruptive and scary for a lot of our members. Indefinite industrial action has been confirmed and we are working with the unions to secure the ability to deliver essential services which will be to a small number of our members. It’s time for the Government to put a stop to this and take action today as vulnerable people will continue to suffer,”

Pay parity was one of the key issues IWA called for in its pre-budget submission and with days until the proposed strike action, the Irish Wheelchair Association emphasises that there has been no meaningful engagement with the Government to find a solution.