National strike by junior doctors fear

FEARS were growing last night that junior hospital doctors may take strike action across the country over changed working arrangements which must be introduced this month under an EU directive.

Non-consultant doctors (NCHDs) in Tralee General Hospital yesterday voted for action by 39 votes to 37 while a similar decision was taken at Waterford Regional Hospital.

IMO representative in Tralee, Dr Neville Shine claimed changes in their working terms would affect their training and continuity of patient care as there would be fewer doctors around during peak working hours.