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

I will first deal with Deputy Ó Caoláin's question. I have already pointed out that it was a matter to be ruled on by the Labour Court and that we do not believe the practice to be sustainable or justifiable.

The majority of consultants are compliant to the best of my knowledge. I am not aware of instances where they are not compliant. I am reluctant to use the word "always" nor am I confident to use the word "never". I would like to be made aware of any instances of non-compliance and I will ask the HSE to take action to ensure the agreement is enforced. The negotiations are over on this matter.

One of the areas I have not mentioned is the power of the new clinical director, which is particularly important. In the past the clinical director did not have powers to enforce or dictate policy.

Now they are appointed and have the power to direct their colleagues as to when they must be available, when they can take their holidays and when they should be on duty. This is a very important part of reorganising the service to ensure it is done on the basis of what suits patients best, rather than what might suit individual providers of care within the system.

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