asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the growing sense of frustration felt by medical officers because of the delay in making any concession to them in respect of the claim first made by the Medical Union on their behalf on 29th March, 1967, to his Department for adequate and recognised time off from official duties; if he will ensure immediate action to remedy the situation, particularly in any areas where alternative doctors are in plentiful supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Medical Officers' Dispute.
10.
The meeting to which I referred in my reply to similar questions last week has been held. I am happy to say that proposals for a settlement of the dispute which were put forward at this meeting were accepted, subject to formal ratification by, on the one hand, the County and City Managers' Association and, on the other hand, the Irish Medical Association and the Medical Union.
Am I to understand that this does not require any further action on the part of the Minister?
Only my formal approval.
Has the Minister received a request for approval from the County Managers' Association yet?
No, I have not. At the date at which I looked at the question it had not been formally agreed by each party but we believe that it will be agreed to.
Has the Minister any idea when the matter may be implemented?
I should think any day now.