The Prospect Trade Union is to carry out a consultative ballot among its members who work for Manx Care about possible industrial action over pay.

In a statement Prospect said that it and fellow sister unions across Manx Care have been in talks with the employer since early April and have submitted a claim to the employer with supporting documentation.

Prospect’s negotiations officer Mick Hewer added: ’Our members have had enough of meaningless discussions. There has been no movement, only promises to seek more funding from Treasury.

’Our members are telling me it is time for the employer to wake up to the crisis they are facing.

’Staff shortages, low morale and a slow haemorrhage of staff leaving to seek better pay elsewhere is adding to the problem. It is unacceptable.

’Our members and those of our sister unions have worked tirelessly for months during difficult circumstances. ’Their pay does not reflect the skills, dedication and commitment required to carry out their roles and to add insult to injury some of our members are receiving invoices for their registration fees with their Christmas Cards.

’Our members are indicating to me verbally that they are willing to take industrial action in furtherance of securing better pay.

’This is a step closer to the island seeing industrial action in their Health Services.

’Traditionally Health Care professionals have not taken industrial action, but their backs are now against the wall.

’We cannot continue to accept pay awards that, after the effects of inflation, are meaningless and result in take home pay in real terms being eroded by inflation.’

More in Tuesday’s Isle of Man Examiner.