Vol. 494 No. 6
54 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of junior hospital doctors in the health service; his views on the fact that many of these doctors are required to routinely work 48 hours without a break; his views on patient safety in view of this; and the plans, if any, he has to introduce reforms in this regard. [18888/98]
The number of non-consultant hospital doctors — NCHDs — working in the public health service is approximately 2,800. The basic working week of all NCHDs is 39 hours. However, they are liable to be rostered to work up to an average of 65 hours per week. The 65 hour week was implemented in 1989 following a Labour Court recommendation and in consultation with the Medical Organisation which represents the interests of NCHDs. A mechanism has been introduced to monitor and control working hours of NCHDs as part of the revised terms and conditions of the NCHD contract of employment effective from 1 January 1997. The first stage of the mechanism was introduced on 1 July 1995 and the complete four stage mechanism, to resolve any breach of the Labour Court recommendation, has been in place since 1 January 1997. NCHDs are not required to work 48 hours without a break as this would be unacceptable.
