James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Consultants play a central role in the delivery of our health services. They are committed to the provision of the best quality care to those who use these services. I welcome the leadership and co-operation shown by consultants in the development and implementation of new models of care through the HSE’s national clinical programmes. Two of these programmes were mentioned by Mr. Dan Barrick, who is one of President Obama's health advisers, in a keynote speech given in Oregon several months ago. Our stroke care programme saves one life per week and pre-empts the necessity for three people to go into long-term care.

My priority has been to achieve effective implementation of the existing consultant contracts so that patients get faster access to services and that better patient outcomes are achieved. In September 2012, following intensive engagement between health service management and the consultant representative bodies at the Labour Relations Commission, a comprehensive set of measures was agreed. The agreement encompasses a range of flexibilities to enhance productivity and efficiency and to maximise the availability of consultants, as key clinical decision-makers. The Labour Court issued its recommendations regarding a number of further issues on 6 November 2012. Two of these relate directly to consultants pay, historic rest day arrangements and the fee for the provision of a second opinion as required under the Mental Health Act 2001. Health service management is now engaged in implementation of the measures covered by the LRC and Labour Court processes. I look forward to all consultants embracing the changes agreed at the LRC and accepting the terms of the Labour Court recommendations in the interest of providing the most appropriate and cost-effective services to patients.

In September 2012 I announced that in future consultants would be appointed at a significantly reduced rate, involving a 30% reduction in the salary previously set for new entrants. The first point of the revised pay scale for type A consultants is now €116,207 compared with €166,010 previously, and for type B consultants is €109,381 compared with €156, 258. I appreciate this is a substantial reduction in the rate payable. However, it is a necessary measure if we are to continue to renew and develop the workforce and to provide consultant level career opportunities for doctors.

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