I propose to take Questions Nos. 1195 and 1196 together.
At present 'new entrant' consultants recruited since 1 October 2012 are on lower pay scales than those recruited prior to that date. The Programme for Government provides for the finalisation of the new Sláintecare 'Type A' Consultant Contract and the introduction of related legislation to support 'public-only work' in public hospitals. Those who take up the Sláintecare Contract, as new entrants or switchers from the current Type A, B or C Contracts, will benefit from the Type A Pay Scales currently available to 'pre-1 October 2012' Type A Consultants.
The FEMPI Acts currently prohibit pay increases for serving public servants and will require amendment to enable pay increases for serving consultants who move to the Sláintecare 'public only' Consultant Contract.
A draft Bill providing for this legislative amendment is being prepared and it is envisaged that this legislation will be progressed as a priority. My Department will at the same time engage with the representative bodies on the introduction of the Contract.