THE HEALTH Service Executive (HSE) is to withdraw controversial plans to reduce overtime and allowances for non-consultant hospital doctors in return for a strict timetable for the introduction of new rosters and an overall new contract.
The row over the cutbacks is to be fully resolved at the High Court today. As part of the proposed deal, the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) will enter into negotiations on the introduction of new rosters for non-consultant hospital doctors by July. Such rosters would be in compliance with the European Working Time Directive and limit the working week, on average, to 48 hours.
Separately, the parties would agree to enter into negotiations on a new contract for non-consultant hospital doctors to be introduced by Christmas. It is understood that the proposed deal allows for binding arbitration if necessary.
Under the proposed deal all existing agreements between the parties would lapse if no agreement on a new contract was reached by the end of the year.
Six doctors, along with the IMO, had brought proceedings claiming a breach of contract by the HSE.