PUBLIC health doctors return to work today following a decision by union representatives to recommend acceptance of a deal aimed at ending a 10-week-old dispute.

The Irish Medical Organisation's Public Health Committee today issued notice of strike by more than 270 doctors following the refusal by the Department of Health and Children to abide by an agreement reached nine years ago.

Public Health Doctors in the Irish Medical Organisation, returned ballot papers with 94% in favour of industrial action following continuous delays on the part of the Department of Health & Children to enter into constructive negotiations on a number of issues.