asked the Minister for Health if he has satisfied himself that the proposed new General Medical Service contract can be brought into operation as scheduled on 1 January 1989 in view of the very large amount of opposition to it from doctors all over the country and the fact that the Irish Medical Organisation will hold an extraordinary general meeting on 11 December 1988 to consider a resolution that a new ballot be held on the contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - General Medical Service Contract.
57.
Resulting from the acceptance of Mr. John Horgan's proposals for changes in the arrangements with participating doctors in the GMS, both parties to the discussion have been meeting on a regular basis to finalise both the contract document and the administrative procedures necessary for the implementation of the new arrangements. I am satisfied that these matters are now well advanced and, therefore, the implementation date continues to be 1 January next.
I understand that the Irish Medical Organisation will hold an extraordinary general meeting on 11 December next. It would however be inappropriate of me to comment on the possible outcome.