Harney urges doctors to accept work hour changes

Health Minister Mary Harney is urging junior doctors to accept a Labour Court ruling that could lead to significant changes to their working week.

At present, non-consultant hospital doctors are paid overtime for any work they do outside regular nine-to-five hours from Monday to Friday.

However, the Labour Court has recommended that their core week should include any five days of the week, as well as earlier starts and later finishes.

The Irish Medical Council is expected to ballot its members on the proposals later this month.

Speaking in Dublin today, Ms Harney said the changes were vital to reform of the health service.