Management of HSE Mid West says it’s taking its staff four to six hours to get to and from work instead of the usual 30 minutes due to the ongoing fuel protests.
The organisation also claims some patients are unable to attend critical appointments as a result of the disruption.
In a letter to Oireachtas members seen by Clare FM, HSE Midwest says there’s a “significant level of concern among management, staff, and patients” regarding several factors connected to the protests.
It outlines difficulties for emergency services navigating road blockages and severe delays for staff travelling to and from work.
For the latter, it’s claimed commutes are taking between four and six hours compared to 30 minutes as they usually do.
Additionally, it alleges that patients are unable to attend critical appointments and that petrol stations near University Hospital Limerick have run out of fuel, with this issue having “serious implications” for staff, patients and emergency services.
The letter calls for Oireachtas members’ support and states that HSE Mid West is “implementing all necessary mitigations” at its disposal to ensure staff and patients safety.
