Junior doctors to vote on extending industrial action

Junior doctors across the country begin balloting today on a proposal to extend industrial action in a dispute over rostering changes.

The vote comes as talks continue to avert an extended work stoppage at Waterford Regional hospital, with 120 junior doctors preparing to strike tomorrow.

Non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHD) across the country are expected to vote by a large majority in favour of extending industrial action.

The Irish Medical Organisation, which represents the NCHD says new rosters are dangerous and unworkable, and will reduce opportunities.

However, the Health Service Employers agency says the dispute is a disguised attempt to protect overtime earnings, which can average €45,000 per year.

They say the new rosters are an attempt to reduce junior doctors working hours to the EU directed 58-a-week by the end of 2004.