LRC talks seek breakthrough in doctors dispute

HOPES that planned talks at the Labour Relations Commission today will provide a breakthrough in the dispute with junior doctors at Waterford General Hospital were being played down yesterday.

The IMO's attendance at this morning's LRC meeting remained in doubt last night as some members were reluctant to attend the talks.

Junior doctors expressed their anger at the Health Service Employers' Agency's refusal to remove the new rosters which are the centre of the dispute in advance of the LRC talks.

The dispute over rosters resulted in major disruption to non-emergency services at hospitals in Waterford and Tullamore last week.

However, HSEA spokesperson, Brendan Mulligan said the IMO could not seek "to impose pre-conditions" on any settlement talks.

Around 120 junior doctors who picketed Waterford General Hospital last week are due to resume their industrial action tomorrow morning.

A three-day strike by their colleagues at Tullamore General Hospital is also planned from tomorrow, unless there is any progress arising out of today's LRC talks in Dublin.

The new rosters are being introduced to comply with an EU directive that the maximum working week by junior doctors must be reduced to 58 hours by 2004.

However, the IMO claims the new rosters will reduce their training hours and impact on patient care.

A ballot by the country's 3,000 junior doctors which could see the dispute escalate to a nationwide hospital strike is currently under way. However, the results will not be known until August 23.

LRC chief executive, Kieran Mulvey last night urged both sides to show a willingness to find a solution to this complex dispute.

"We hope they realise that patient care must be given priority and that hospital services cannot be curtailed!," said Mr Mulvey.

The South Eastern Health Board has advised that any patients due to attend Waterford General Hospital this week should contact the hospital on 051-848000 for further information on service developments.

News updates on services affected by any resumed industrial action will also be announced through national and local media and the Board's website on www.sehb.ie.

Row festers for over a year

August 12: Representatives of the Irish Medical Organisation and South Eastern Health Board attend Labour Relations Commission.

August 13: Indefinite industrial action set to resume at Waterford General Hospital. A three-day strike at Tullamore General Hospital is also due to begin.

August 23: Results of ballot of 3,000 junior doctors for nationwide hospital strike to be announced.

September 5: Both sides set to attend hearing at Labour Court.