Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 June 2017
401. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Health if GMS payments to general practitioners which have previously been reduced under FEMPI are included under the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29997/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 represents the outcome of discussions facilitated by the Workplace Relations Commission in respect of the extension of the Lansdowne Road Agreement and the previous Public Service Agreements. The proposals aim to assist the unwinding of FEMPI legislation as it has applied to public servants since 2009. General practitioners are private contractors and are not covered by the proposed Agreement.
The Government is committed to continuing to develop and strengthen primary care services, including general practitioner services. I recognise that it will, over time, be necessary to invest further in these services while at the same time ensuring best value for such additional spending. The Deputy will be aware of the engagement in relation to GP contracts which is under way at present. Issues of remuneration for general practitioners will, I expect, be the subject of engagement between the parties during these discussions.
