The workers marched to the HSE Offices and handed in a petition, containing over 10,000 signatures, calling on the agency to reverse its decision to implement massive cutbacks in Home Help hours.

SIPTU Organiser, Dimma van Dulmen, said: “Home Help workers throughout the midland counties of Laois, Longford, Westmeath and Offaly, their families and clients, who are able, will join the march and send a clear message to the HSE that these cuts must be reversed. We are also seeking support from the general public.”

The march received the backing of Tullamore Town Council which, earlier this month, unanimously voted in favour of a motion supporting the SIPTU ‘Time to Care’ Home Helps campaign. A number of county councillors have also expressed solidarity with the SIPTU Home Helps and joined the march.

Tullamore Home Help, Carmel Bannon, said: “This was an important day in our battle to reverse these cuts. We have received huge support from the general public, and growing support from politicians of all parties. Now we are bringing our message directly to the HSE.”