An independent chair is to lead a new group within the National Ambulance Service (NAS) to address alleged bullying, harassment and discrimination.
The HSE has appointed retired Major General Maureen O’Brien to head a team to examine serious issues relating to workplace culture.
The details were communicated by the HSE to unions yesterday.
In recent weeks, a series of queries were submitted by RTÉ Prime Time to the HSE regarding significant concerns about such issues within the organisation.
A long-term investigation focusing on the NAS is due to be broadcast on Prime Time soon.
In a letter to NAS staff, National Director of HSE National Services and Schemes Pat Healy said the new group “is required to address staff feedback relating to bullying, discrimination, harassment and levels of trust within the organisation”.
“These behaviours can significantly impact individuals and teams and have no place in our organisation.
“Every member of staff deserves to work in an environment characterised by dignity, respect and professionalism,” he wrote.
“For that reason, a dedicated culture initiative is being established, independently chaired by Maureeen O’Brien, retired Irish Major General, supported by a programme board,” he added.
Ms O’Brien is a former deputy military advisor to the UN Under Secretary General for Peace Operations.
NAS staff include paramedics, emergency medicine technicians (EMTS) and other ambulance staff.
Mr Healy added: “The aim of this work is to create a workplace where people feel respected, safe and heard, while also building stronger trust between staff and management.”
Over the next six months, the new unit in the NAS will carry out an organisation-wide survey, workshops, staff interviews and site visits.
The correspondence also stated that staff should raise concerns through the appropriate channels if they encounter “inappropriate behaviour”.
Sinn Féin’s Spokesperson on Health David Cullinane described the HSE’s decision to establish the programme as “hugely significant”.
“The HSE itself is now acknowledging serious concerns being raised by staff about bullying, harassment, discrimination and levels of trust within the organisation,” he said.
“This cannot be looked at in isolation. Last year, 70% of ambulance staff who participated in a ballot rejected proposals arising from the Roles and Responsibilities process, despite both unions recommending acceptance.
“Earlier this year, ambulance workers then voted overwhelmingly for industrial action. That dispute was eventually resolved, but these votes were a very clear warning about the level of frustration, low morale and lack of confidence among staff,” he added.
“The fact that the HSE now believes an independently chaired culture programme is necessary should be taken seriously. Staff must be able to speak openly and confidentially about their experiences without any fear of repercussions.
“This cannot become another HSE review that produces a report while the underlying problems remain,” said the Waterford TD.