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Workforce
There is a continuous review of the cost and reliance on agency staff to ensure that the level used is
appropriate to meet the needs of service delivery and that agency use is reduced or service need met by
the recruitment of staff paid directly when this is suitable.
Particular attention will be paid to the further development and implementation of measures to support the
recruitment and retention of nursing and midwifery staff in light of identified shortages.
The Lansdowne Road Public Service Stability Agreement 2013–2018
The LRA, which represents an extension of the Haddington Road Agreement (HRA), was negotiated
between Government and unions in May 2015 and will continue until September 2018. The agreement is
endorsed by the majority of health sector unions and provides for the commencement of a phased
approach towards pay restoration, targeted primarily at those on lower pay scales.
Strategic Review of Medical Training and Career Structure (MacCraith Report)
The outstanding recommendations of this report will continue to be implemented and in particular the issue
of friendly flexible working arrangements will, service dependent, be supported. The task transfer initiative
will be concluded and implementation of revised work practices shall be prioritised.
Outstanding recommendations on training, workforce planning and the consultant appointment process will
be implemented.
European Working Time Directive
We are committed to maintaining and progressing compliance with the requirements of the European
Working Time Directive including non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs) and staff in the social care
sector. Key indicators of performance agreed with the European Commission include a maximum 24 hour
shift, maximum average 48 hour week, 30 minute breaks every six hours, 11 hour daily rest / equivalent
compensatory rest and 35 hour weekly / 59 hour fortnightly / equivalent compensatory rest. We will
continue to progress improved performance against these targets within the overall parameters of the
service plan.
Staff health and wellbeing and occupational health
Staff will be enabled to become healthier in their workplaces through improved staff engagement,
accreditation of staff support services and updating of key national policies. Safer workplaces will be
created and in 2017 we will:
• Review and revise the HSE’s Corporate Safety Statement
• Develop key KPIs in health and safety management and performance
• Launch a new statutory occupational safety and health training policy
• Develop and commence a national proactive audit and inspection programme.
National Service Plan 2017 14