Ciaran Lynch
Question:394. Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health when a new cardiology appointment will be provided for a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43047/13]
View answerTuesday, 15 October 2013
Questions (394)
Written answers
As the Deputy will be aware, NCHD’s undertook one-day industrial action in pursuance of a maximum shift of 24 hours and full compliance with the EWTD (48 hours per week) by the end of 2014 which resulted in a reduction in planned patient attendances and the cancellation of numerous procedures.
I was disappointed that this action took place, particularly given its impact on the provision of services to the public and having regard to the commitment to achieving compliance with the European Working Time Directive in respect of NCHDs by the end of 2014. Disruption to the delivery of acute care causes unnecessary worry and anxiety and is not in the interests of patients.
I am, however, pleased that the IMO and its NCHD Committee accepted the invitation to attend the LRC last Thursday and that progress has been made. As with any industrial dispute, negotiation between the parties is the only logical way of achieving resolution. I would hope that this engagement will result in an agreement acceptable to both sides. Patients deferred are being offered the earliest possible re-attendance / readmission dates and in relation to the particular case raised by the Deputy, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to investigate and respond directly to him.