3208. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Health if her attention has been drawn to ongoing industrial action at a facility (details supplied); the actions she will take to ensure that these employees get a fair hearing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55221/26]

3209. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the engagement she has had with employees taking industrial action at a facility (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55222/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 3208 and 3209 together.

Firstly, I would like to recognise the staff in St Joseph’s Centre Shankill who provide exceptional care and services.

It is disappointing that the household and domestic staff employed by St Joseph’s Centre felt they must take industrial action and that recent talks in the Workplace Relations Commission have broken down.

While St Joseph’s Centre is not a public body, it provides important residential care services to the community. The terms and conditions of employment of staff, once in line with employment legislation, are matters for St Joseph's as the employer and the employees concerned.

I would encourage both sides to re-engage through the WRC and avail of the established industrial relations machinery with a view to reaching a resolution.

The continuity of care remains a priority and St Joseph’s has confirmed that contingency arrangements are in place to support delivery of essential services, maintain safe operations and minimise disruption.