People Before Profit Cllr Shaun Harkin said:
“Homecare workers, district nurses and occupational therapists take care of some of the most vulnerable in our society – but they’re struggling to pay their bills. As a result, many are facing hardship.
I joined Unison Foyle Branch members at Altnagelvin Hospital to deliver a letter to Western Trust CEO Neil Guckian demanding the Trust and the Department of Health immediately increase the mileage reimbursement rate so that they can continue to perform this vital service and pay for the cost of travel.
Without action this is in effect yet another pay cut and slap in the face for those at the heart of the health service.
For workers in the private sector the mileage reimbursement rate is shamefully low or non-existent.
We encourage all workers to take action now for increased mileage reimbursement rates and better pay.”
