Ambulance staff warned against misogynistic behaviour

The National Ambulance Service (NAS) Director, Robert Morton, has issued a warning that staff engaging in misogynistic or sexually harassing behavior will face disciplinary measures. This directive was revealed in a memo obtained by RTÉ News. Morton emphasized that perpetrators must cease their actions, depart from the organization, or encounter the Health and Social Care Executive (HSE) internal disciplinary process.

The memo follows a report by more than 30 women to RTÉ’s Prime Time, detailing their experiences of sexual harassment, misogyny, bullying, or intimidation within the service. Morton confirmed that the NAS is currently handling five sexual harassment complaints and is aware of two Garda investigations. The outcomes of these investigations will determine further HSE actions.

The letter to employees acknowledges that 66 staff members reported sexual harassment through a SIPTU survey, while 190 reported witnessing it. Morton urged management to challenge inappropriate behavior and assured staff that their concerns would be taken seriously. He specifically encouraged male colleagues to actively support female colleagues in challenging such behavior and to report their concerns promptly.

Many women who shared their experiences on Prime Time expressed fear of speaking up due to potential career repercussions, with some reporting that managers and supervisors discouraged them from complaining. Morton stressed that the NAS maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards misogyny and sexual harassment. The Health and Social Care Executive announced a six-month cultural review of the service to examine allegations of sexual misconduct and misogyny.

Major General Maureen O Brien has been appointed to lead a team conducting an organization-wide survey, workshops, staff interviews, and site visits.