Patients at the Central Mental Hospital in Dundrum have been allowed out of their cells for normal association, following three days of isolation because of a strike by SIPTU care officers. SIPTU members agreed last night to provide staffing levels that would allow a return to the normal therapeutic regime this morning, while talks on a possible settlement of the dispute begin.
Last night, the hospital's medical director, Dr Charles Smith, welcomed the move. He had earlier warned the Eastern Health Board and SIPTU that continued isolation could have serious health consequences for the patients.
He said: "I am sorry it has come to this pass. We have to sort out the problem of patient seclusion because we have patients with major illness and behavioural problems. Isolation is very damaging for them and quite a few are deteriorating".
Arrangements had been made to draft in chief nursing officers (senior nurse managers) from other psychiatric units last night so that patients might leave their cells. SIPTU members initially warned that they would walk out of the hospital if this happened and the EHB arranged for gardai to assist managerial staff.
Shortly after 6 p.m., however, there were discussions between SIPTU's national industrial officer, Mr Matt Merrigan, and senior EHB personnel. A temporary arrangement was brokered that would lift the seclusion regime while talks took place. These open at EHB headquarters at Dr Steeven's hospital at 9.30 a.m. today.
A general meeting of SIPTU members is scheduled for 11.30 a.m. to consider progress.