SIPTU representatives have urged the HSE to take immediate action to resolve a dispute arising from a recruitment and retention crisis affecting Clinical Practice Tutors in Radiography.
SIPTU Sector Organiser, John McCamley, said: “Consistent failures to address staffing requirements and tutors’ pay rates have jeopardised the number of locations where student radiographers could be placed during their training. Radiographer Practice Tutors perform a vital role in assisting and guiding students during their clinical placements.
“The Government’s decision to increase the number of student radiographers without the HSE increasing the number of Practice Tutors has put additional pressure on the existing Radiographer Practice Tutors, who are trying to find capacity within the system for additional clinical placements.
“SIPTU has also highlighted concerns about safety issues, noting that students are placed in locations where there are inadequate resources to cater for them. We welcome the decision to increase the number of radiography students. However, this must come with additional resources to accommodate these new students.”
He added: “Presently, a recruitment and retention crisis is affecting Radiographer Practice Tutors, with unresolved issues relating to staffing, workload and pay. SIPTU is calling on the HSE to take immediate, concrete action before difficulties arise for students in getting clinical placement hours due to the lack of tutors.”
SIPTU Sector Organiser, Deirdre Canty, said: “SIPTU Radiographer Practice Tutor members are seeking recognition for their increasing responsibilities and role.
“It is only just and fair that the HSE would address ongoing issues of dispute and that additional funding would be made available by the Department of Health to bring this matter to a conclusion.”