Why graduate nurses are uncertain about their future
Summary
Fiona Gilmar, a 2026 nursing graduate from DKIT, shares her frustration after 44 classmates were promised permanent HSE contracts in March but left in limbo due to budget cuts. INMO Director Tony Fitzpatrick confirms this breach of collective agreements is affecting graduates nationwide, arguing that the hiring embargo will increase agency costs and drive staff overseas. While the HSE claims recruitment is underway, the union insists there are no clear start dates, leaving graduates financially stranded and the health service short-staffed.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Fiona Gilmar and the graduate nurse crisis
Fiona explains the 44 DKIT graduates and broken promises
Personal commitment to nursing as a mature student
The March 2026 HSE memo promising permanent contracts
Financial strain and the sudden halt in payments
Reasons for the change: HSE overspending and lack of clarity
INMO intervention and the breach of collective agreements
Wider impact on nursing graduates in Galway and Cork
Confirmation of written offers and subsequent silence from HSE
Current options: HCA roles, social welfare, or emigration
HSE statement and call for response from institutions
HSE update on recruitment in Louth and Meath areas
Tony Fitzpatrick (INMO) confirms national breach of agreement
Consequences: increased costs, curtailed services, and brain drain
The embargo on hiring due to budget overspending
Evidence of available vacancies and lack of ministerial response
Closing remarks and contact information for affected graduates
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