A heartwarming banner made by a patient in Crumlin Children’s Hospital to support the medical scientists’ strike has been applauded on Twitter.
The patient’s mother, who says her son regularly requires the services of the medical scientists in Crumlin, posted a photo of the banner on social media to show solidarity towards the medical scientists who help him on his health journey.
The Medical Scientists Laboratory Association (MSLA) liked the wholesome post on Twitter.
The banner is inscribed with a colourful limerick that wishes medical scientists the best ofluck in their ongoing efforts to resolve issues over pay and treatment of staff.
The MSLA commenced a two day strike earlier this week, but called off the second day of action after agreeing to enter talks with the Labour Court. The HSE were also invited to the discussions.
“The MLSA’s Executive Committee met this afternoon and has agreed to accept the Labour Court’s invitation. We will remain focused on what is required to achieve a sustainable work structure for Medical Scientists, patients and the Irish health service,” MSLA’s General Secretary Terry Casey said in an official statement.
Medical scientists nationwide are striking due to issues over pay parity in the profession.
Medical scientists are paid on average 8% less annually than their biochemist colleagues, despite doing virtually the same work.
Dr. Kevin O’Boyle, chairperson of the MSLA, previously told the Irish Mirror that the strikes were necessary in order to provide a better future for young graduates in the sector.
The strike that went ahead on Tuesday resulted in the cancellation of approximately 30,000 hospital procedures. GPs nationwide suspended routing testing services for the duration of the day.
Casey said the MSLA will enter the talks “in good faith” and is hopeful a positive solution will be found for the Union’s 2,100 members.
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