GHA 'extremely surprised' by Unite protest over agency workers

The GHA said it was "extremely surprised" by Unite the Union's claim that agency workers at Mount Alvernia are being deprived of a chance to seek permanent employment as nursing assistants.

The GHA said vacancies for the posts within the GHA and ERS had been advertised internally
and externally.

"Therefore, the GHA has not deprived anyone from being able to apply for these
vacancies," the GHA said.

"Further, the contracts issued by the GHA are always subject to a probationary period."

"In addition, the wording of the advert is identical to all other past GHA adverts in respect of the requirement of eligibility for residency. Unite is fully aware that all past adverts issued since 2003 have contained an identical paragraph."

The GHA added: "The GHA met Unite yesterday afternoon in order to once again clarify any misunderstanding on the vacancies and agreed with Unite the wording on the vacancy in relation to the probationary period."

"The GHA is, therefore, extremely surprised to read Unite’s comments suggesting that
individuals have been deprived from applying, or that there is no pathway to permanent
employment."