Vol. 529 No. 2
115 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has entered into negotiations with the Irish Hospital Consultants' Association regarding the common contract; and the implications of the Manpower Forum on the common contract. [2658/01]
I will shortly be bringing a memorandum to Government on the EU Directive on NCHD Working Hours and the Medical Manpower Forum report. I will be seeking the Government's approval to have both reports published and to the steps which will need to follow, including the opening of negotiations on the consultants contract. The report of the Medical Manpower Forum recommends, inter alia, that consultants should provide greater flexibility/cover arrangements than currently exist. It will be necessary to negotiate these changes in work practices with the medical organisations.
