Huge `yes' vote in west, says INO

Nurses in the western region voted overwhelmingly in favour of the Labour Court recommendations, according to the Irish Nurses…

Nurses in the western region voted overwhelmingly in favour of the Labour Court recommendations, according to the Irish Nurses' Organisation (INO).

Although no regional breakdown is being issued by the Nursing Alliance, there was "no dissident vote" in the west, in spite of earlier indications.

Ms Clare Treacy, INO industrial relations officer for the western region, welcomed the endorsement yesterday. "A week ago, nurses were very frustrated and angry, but following consideration of the package they could see it for what it is - the culmination of four years of hard work in terms of an industrial strategy.

"This package, taken in conjunction with the Commission on Nursing report, will project nurses into the future", she said, adding that the profession would never be the same again as a result.

Lorna Siggins

Lorna Siggins

Lorna Siggins is the former western and marine correspondent of The Irish Times