Vol. 517 No. 3
189 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on recent press reports (details supplied) that half of all junior doctors have used alcohol or anti-depressants to help them cope with the stresses of the job because of low morale; and the steps, if any, he proposes to take to deal with this very serious issue. [9554/00]
These reports arise from a literature review of the effects of long working hours undertaken by the Irish Medical Organisation. The findings are consistent with those which have emerged from studies of other occupational groups who work in stressful environments. The issues which affect Irish junior doctors are being addressed in the context of the introduction of reduced working hours, better training prospects and a more structured career path.
