“There are new pronouns coming out all the time,” a HSE pronoun training video tells staff.
The 30–minute Pronoun Awareness Training is run by the FDYS youth service and “fully funded by HSE Social Inclusion.”
It is available free of charge “all year round to HSE staff, non-HSE staff, voluntary and community groups…basically anyone who requests it, but with a main focus on HSE staff.” According to the introduction, “the aim of this module is to raise awareness about the use of pronouns and to promote LGBTIQ+ inclusive spaces.”
BIOLOGICAL SEX CAN CHANGE OVER TIME
According to the course, biological sex “can change over time” and is not related to gender.
Staff are told to use “they” and “them” pronouns for non-binary people, while noting that some may prefer mixed forms such as “she/they.”
NOT USING PREFERRED PRONOUNS MAY REQUIRE FURTHER “EDUCATION”
It also says that refusing to use a person’s preferred pronouns is “a problem” that requires re-education.
“If you use the wrong pronouns, anyone can make mistakes, so acknowledge, apologise and move on,” the video advises.
“It does become a problem when people intentionally use the wrong pronouns. It dismisses and disrespects the person.”
Staff are told to respect pronouns even when the person is not present, and the module says that consistently using pronouns that aren’t preferred must be addressed, because it indicates that one is “refusing to accept” that person’s gender identity.
“If someone is consistently using the wrong pronouns, there is definitely need for awareness raising and education,” it states.
“Because if it’s persistent and intentional, it does indicate that the person is refusing to accept the person’s identity. And that can cause issues for the person who is identifying.”
“PEOPLE’S NAMES CHANGE THROUGHOUT THEIR LIVES”
Participants are also warned against “deadnaming” – using a person’s original birth name before transitioning – and against “misgendering.”
“People’s names/titles change throughout their lives, and we generally accept and respect these changes without question,” the video says.
“For example, when someone gets married and there is a change of surname. We apologise when getting these names wrong if we are corrected & we should treat change of pronouns the same way.”
“RESPECTING PRONOUNS IS VITAL ACROSS ALL ROLES”
Respecting pronouns, the training stresses, is required in every role.
“Respecting pronouns is vital across all roles, whether you’re in admin, HR, clinical, or estates, it reads.
Tips for inclusion include: “Use your own pronouns in email signature if comfortable to do so…Wear a pronoun badge or sticker…Have pronoun posters in waiting rooms/office spaces.”
The video also recommends introducing yourself with name and pronoun, while inviting others to share theirs “if they feel comfortable to do so.”
“If you are not sure of someone’s pronouns, do not assume, just ask or use they/them pronouns until you know,” it continues.
Staff are also told to ask whether a person’s pronouns are “open” or “confidential.”
The video advises against reacting with visible surprise. “Avoid shocked or surprised facial expressions and be mindful of body language when others share their pronouns.”
DON’T SAY “MAM” OR “DAD”
It also tells staff to change wording in certain contexts to be more inclusive.
Instead of asking “Is your Mam or Dad here today?” the suggested phrase is “Is your parent or guardian here today?”
“THERE ARE NEW PRONOUNS COMING OUT ALL THE TIME”
The video also says that there are “new pronouns coming out all the time”, and that individuals should accept this.
“We don’t need to fully understand something in order to accept it,” the course says.
“There are many pronouns that I have never heard of before, and there are new pronouns, neo pronouns, coming out all the time. And it’s OK that we don’t understand them all. We can still accept them, and accept the person’s gender identity and what they are sharing with us.”
MOST PREGNANT INDIVIDUALS IDENTIFY AS FEMALE
As previously reported by Gript, the HSE has said that “most” pregnant individuals identify as female, and that men can go through menopause.
Background documents previously reported by Gript show that the HSE has also urged staff to use pronouns such as “ze” or “xe,” and has described biological sex as “a spectrum.”
A separate HSE guide encourages the use of the title “Mx.” rather than “Mr.” or “Mrs.” and instructs healthcare workers to “check your privilege” when interacting with patients.