Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

The process is under way in the LRC. I accept what the Deputy said, that we need changed work practices whereby doctors work as part of teams and clinical directors. We have already seen some initiatives, especially in Blanchardstown hospital where seven new consultants have been appointed. They will work on a team and on a 24-hour per day basis. These are the types of initiatives which will deliver the best health care for patients. We are in discussions for a contract for consultants too and it may well be that all of them will be concluded together. I know the chairman is hoping to have those talks resumed quickly. We need to move quickly to get a more flexible and appropriate contract of employment for consultants and non-consultant hospital doctors. It is my intention and that of the HSE and the Department of Health and Children to have that soon.

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