Paramedics at Drogheda Ambulance Station say they have reached a point where they can no longer remain silent about the conditions they are expected to work in.
Staff say they have spent years working in a building they believe is no longer fit for purpose. Among the issues they describe are water coming through the roof and having to mop floors during their shifts, often between responding to emergency calls, while continuing to provide what they describe as a professional and lifesaving service to the people of Drogheda and the surrounding areas.
Following the relocation of HSE staff from the building, additional space became available within the station. According to paramedics, they identified a small room that could be used as a quiet wellbeing space where staff could take a few minutes to recover after attending traumatic incidents or particularly distressing calls.
They stress that the proposal was not for a staff facility with special amenities, but simply a basic room with no television, computer or equipment where paramedics could process difficult experiences before returning to duty.
However, staff claim the room was later converted into a storage area without consultation, despite what they say was the availability of larger rooms elsewhere in the building. They say the decision has left many feeling disappointed, disrespected and that their wellbeing is not being prioritised.
Paramedics regularly respond to incidents involving serious injury, medical emergencies, death and other traumatic situations. Staff say that while they are committed to caring for the public, they also need a workplace that acknowledges the emotional impact of the work they carry out every day.
They insist they are not seeking special treatment but are calling for a safe and suitable working environment, as well as greater engagement from management when concerns about staff welfare and workplace conditions are raised.
Staff say the people of Drogheda deserve to know that the paramedics who respond in times of emergency are working from a station that, in their view, does not reflect the importance of the service they provide.
