Caredoc workers have “no choice” but to strike amid an escalating dispute over pay, SIPTU has argued. 

The service provides out of hours GP care to people with urgent medical problems in over a dozen counties

Until 8pm tomorrow, some 270 workers have downed tools in five counties, with further strike action possible later this month as well. 

On Newstalk Breakfast, SIPTU spokesperson Ger McNally said members simply want what they have been promised. 

“It arises back from 2023 in a WRC agreement in which 8% was agreed to and meant to be paid on to our members,” he explained.

“And subsequently, since that, we've tried engaging with Caredoc and there's been no meaningful engagement as to how this 8% was going to be applied.

“In early May, we understand there was €647,000 paid over from the HSE to Care Doc to pass on to our members.

“And just within Care Doc, the people we represent would be call takers, drivers, receptionists and admin staff. 

“And this money has not been passed on to our members, despite numerous requests from SIPTU to pass it on.”

A doctor holding a stethoscope. Picture by: Alamy.com.

Mr McNally said SIPTU has continued to request meetings with Caredoc but there has been “no meaningful engagement”. 

“It's also important to note that there's a lot of our members in there who are working on barely over minimum wage,” he added. 

“They're supplying 24/7 access to care; it's unsociable hours. 

“It's regrettable that we have come to this decision but we've no choice.”

Mr McNally described any impact on patients as “regrettable” but noted there are alternatives available. 

“But within the HSE's website, if you look it up with regards to the GP out of hours care, it says in an emergency at any time you go, you dial 999 and you go to the emergency department,” he said. 

Caredoc has been contacted for comment.

Main image: A doctor and patient. Picture by: Alamy.com.