IMO recommends roster deal

Junior doctors have been advised to accept a recent Labour Court recommendation which will lead to the introduction of new rosters and less overtime.

Following a meeting yesterday, the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) has recommended that its members accept proposals which were agreed in April.

Under the agreement, new rosters are to be introduced which will be in compliance with the European working time directive which limits the working week, on average, to 48 hours.

The deal means that rosters will include a longer working day and weekend work with less overtime for junior doctors.

In a statement, the IMO said all new working arrangements must prioritise patient safety, training for non consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs) and health and safety issues.

A ballot will be sent to all members with a return date of next Thursday.