22 November 2007
The Health Service Executive’s search for a national HR director cannot solve its problems without union leaders taking responsibility for disruptions and health management providing leadership and inspiring employee confidence.
The director of the country’s main personnel professional body, CIPD-Ireland, Michael McDonnell warned that 'no single person, no matter how talented and inspirational, can rescue the Health Service Executive on their own'.
He was responding to the HSE’s latest effort to recruit a National Human Resources Director. It is the third attempt in as many years but, since 2004, the HSE has failed to secure a permanent personnel chief.
Mr McDonnell said that 'each of the six main health sector unions has contributed to disruption and delays in improving the service whether in seeking extraordinary salaries; a 35-hour standard week; maintaining antiquated demarcation; unreasonable overtime; or preventing other health workers maintain services.'
'Since its rushed establishment in late 2004, the HSE has been plagued by management inertia and a lack of clear corporate structure. The result is poor morale and soaring costs.'
He said that 'with health expenditure rising from under €8 billion in 2002 to €14bn this year, the problems and solutions lie with people and not with money'. Mr McDonnell added that 'Irish health employees, from consultants and senior managers to nurses and support staff, rank among the highest paid in Europe'.
'Together, without sectional rivalries, they can provide a quality, efficient and fair service to the public. It is only in that context that the HSE will retain a top quality new Director of Human Resources who can help guide best-practice people management.'
The HSE expects to screen candidates for the job next month and hold final interviews in January. The recommended salary by the Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector is set at €170,000 a year with a potential bonus of up to €34,000. Applications close next week for the position.
- See also: (2007) HR supremo cannot salvage health service alone. IRN - Industrial Relations News. No 42, 22 November. p16.