Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:193 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to ensure reasonable working hours for junior hospital doctors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10156/00]
Written Answers. - Hospital Doctors.
Health service employers and the Irish Medical Organisation are currently engaged in a joint study of junior hospital doctors' working hours. The study is being undertaken at eight hospitals by PA management consultants. The report of the study will be available in June. Following receipt of the report an implementation plan will be drawn up to progressively reduce doctors' working hours. This will have as its objective a reduction in working hours in at least as short a period as that required by any EU directive.