Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 September 2012
440. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health if she will report on the recent agreement with hospital consultants; if there will be any implications for long-standing plans he has to increase the number of consultants in the health system so as to address ongoing long waiting times for patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40344/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing a request on 13 September by senior health service management on behalf of the Government, intensive discussions between health service employers and the two consultant representative bodies commenced immediately at the Labour Relations Commission. These dealt with a range of matters, including measures to ensure that the relevant parts of the Health Sectoral Agreement within the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014 can be given effect. These discussions were also attended by officials from my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and concluded on 17 September 2012.
The outcome of this engagement is that detailed proposals have been agreed between the parties. Amongst the key provisions of this agreement are that:
- Consultants will be available for rostering for any five days out of seven as opposed to weekdays as at present;
- There can be rostering of consultants where required on 16/7 (8 a.m. to midnight) or 24/7 basis in services where this is required;
- Clinical Directors will have a strengthened management role in respect of consultants;
- There will be cooperation with a range of measures to support improved Community and Mental Health services;
- Consultants commit to expeditious processing and signing of claims for submission to private health insurers;
- There will be more cost-effective arrangements for funding of continuing medical education.
Separately, Government will apply a 30% reduction in salary for future consultant appointees. Management proposals to reduce the "rest day" arrangements that currently apply and the elimination of the fee to consultant psychiatrists for giving a second opinion under the Mental Health Act 2001 will be referred to the Labour Court, in line with the procedures provided for in the Public Service Agreement. The issue of "historic rest days" will be referred to the Labour Court in line with normal procedures.
Government policy is to increase the number and availability of consultants in the public health service. This policy is reflected in the 2008 Consultant Contract and the outcome of the recent discussions. The revised salary levels for new consultants will facilitate the appointment of more consultants, which will directly enhance the care of patients through increased provision of consultant-delivered services.
