Hospital consultant unions join in strike threat

HOSPITAL consultants’ unions are joining forces to co-ordinate a possible campaign of industrial action which could lead to the withdrawal of all but emergency cover.

The Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) last night announced its decision to ballot members on industrial action, which the Irish Hospital Consultants Association (IHCA) has already signed up to. Both unions claim the Government has continually failed to consult members prior to imposing changes to work practices.

IMO industrial relations director Fintan Hourihan said members were angered at proposals contained in the Health Bill 2004, which were included without conferring with consultants.