Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I do not blame the Deputy for asking the question, but I think he understands we have to engage and negotiate with consultants. We have not yet sat down in a room with the INMO to begin the discussion. I hope it can start some time next week, after the announcement of budget 2020. We will have to look at what has been done for other public servants and the pace at which it has been done. There must be equity. We must also be cognisant of available resources, especially in the context of a potential no-deal Brexit. I see it as the phasing of conversations. I accept that there is a media challenge in recruitment and retention and that pay parity is part of it. However, there must also be a second phase which must be about substantive reform, including reform in line with the de Buitléir report. We cannot continue to stand over private practice in public hospitals, something on which I hope the Deputy will support me.