Cowen welcomes pay agreement for health and social care workers

Local Fianna Fáil TD Barry Cowen, has welcomed news that following intensive talks, an agreement on pay has been reached between the Government and unions representing health and social care workers in the community and voluntary sector.

A group of unions representing the workers has agreed to recommend that they accept a proposal brokered at the Workplace Relations Commission.

The agreement, which unions have indicated will be put to their members, proposes an 8% increase in pay over three phases.

In addition, agreement was reached to commence a process to consider appropriate further funding increases.

Deputy Cowen said, "Fianna Fáil in Government recognises the important role that these organisations and their staff play in our health and social care sectors. They have a key role in providing services to the most vulnerable in our society, people with disabilities, children and older people.

"The Disability Action Plan was approved by Government in July of this year and is currently being prepared for publication. It aims to progressively address unmet need by enhancing and reforming services.

"In addition to the Disability Action Plan, the Roadmap for Service Improvement for Disability Services for Children and Young People is due to be launched within the next few weeks. The Roadmap aims to improve services for children with complex needs and their families.

"My colleagues and I in Fianna Fáil are committed to ensuring the stability and sustainability of services for the benefit of those who rely on these essential services and the workers who are committed to providing them."