HSE contract talks show no progress

HOSPITAL consultants expressed disappointment at the lack of progress made in yesterday’s resumed negotiations with the Health Service Executive (HSE) on a new contract.

Talks between both groups broke down nine months ago following the HSE’s decision to stop filling vacant consultant posts that carried “off-site” private practice rights.

Consultants are to meet with the HSE again after the health authority agreed to suspend its decision to stop filling the “category 2” posts during the negotiations.