Health Services Funding Crisis

Health Services in Ireland North and South are under extreme pressure, facing a funding crisis and significant difficulties in recruiting and retaining an adequate workforce. Waiting times in ED departments and waiting lists for first outpatient appointments are at unacceptable levels with people continuing to suffer with a range of conditions which deteriorate until they require emergency care. Health services are creaking under the pressure with heavy reliance on the good will of the workforce to ensure that essential public services are able to function. The urgent requirement to transform is clearly recognised but with continuing austerity and lack of political direction this agenda is being hindered.

Calls on Congress to:

1. a)  continue pressure on Governments to guarantee that appropriate long-term funding is made available to ensure that Health and Social Care Services are able to deliver the high-quality care that the people of Ireland deserve, on a need not ability to pay basis;

2. b)  campaign to ensure that Government and employers take urgent action to ensure the recruitment of an appropriately skilled workforce which is supported and retained;

c) build on existing co-operation across our Island for secure delivery.