Harney Expected To Get Frosty Reception At PNA Conference

Health Minister Mary Harney is expected to get a frosty reception when she addresses the annual conference of the Psychiatric Nurses Association in Co Donegal today.

Yesterday, the PNA and the Irish Nurses Organisation announced a major escalation in their nationwide strike action over pay and working hours.

Details of the planned escalation are due to be announced tomorrow at the PNA conference in Ballybofey, which will be dominated by the industrial action issue.

Reports this morning say it will involve one-hour stoppages at up to 50 hospitals and mental health services across the country next Wednesday and Friday.