Pay cut for new consultants 'will proceed'

Health Minister Dr James Reilly today insisted that 30% pay cuts for new consultant doctors will go ahead, despite objections from the Irish Medical Organisation.

Recent Labour Relations Commission talks between consultants and health managers also failed to reach an agreement on the issue of rest days and this will now be referred to the Labour Court.

New consultants will now earn €50,000 less than those currently working.

"While the consultant organisations have not agreed to this development, it is a matter for Government policy," a Department of Health statement read.

"The decision has been made and the initiative will proceed.

"The intention to proceed with the new arrangements for new consultants was made clear in advance of the LRC agreement announced this morning."

Agreement was reached on a number of other issues, however. A system of 24/7 rostering will be introduced, with consultants being made available for rostering for any five days out of seven as opposed to weekdays as is currently the case.

"In simple terms with these changes we will be able to treat more patients more quickly," the Department of Health statement said.

"The agreement also puts on a formal basis, a range of productivity flexibilities, which allows for considerable advancements in the use of hospital beds. It's expected that the value of these flexibilities should reach in the region of €200m annually."

The Department of Health stated that the "entry-level pay grade" for new consultants will improve patient care and "allow for the greater provision of consultant-provided services".

Speaking of the agreement reached, Minister Reilly thanked all those involved in the discussions at the LRC.

"On behalf of myself and the Government, I wish to stress the importance of this agreement," he said.

"The consultants organisations have shown considerable leadership in agreeing to recommend these crucial changes.

"The impact of what has been agreed has a vital financial benefit and of greater importance it paves the way for the more effective treatment of patients as we continue to reform our health services for the better in the interests of patients"