Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for the question. I know he does not want the standard answer which mentions that the contract is very central to the future of GP practice. Whether we like it or not, the existing contract has been in place since 1971 or 1972. The renegotiation of that contract is a central aspect of the development of GP practice into the future. In recent years, we have invested in and significantly increased the GP allowance for rural practices. However, such practices continue to face many pressures. I take the Deputy's point that all these issues will not be solved by contract renewal alone. Much of this relates to the implementation of Sláintecare, a reduction in our reliance on GPs and better management of GP practices. Into the future, initiatives like nurse-led practice and nurses seeing more people will be features of GP practices as we seek to make sure such practices are sustainable. There has been a significant increase in the number of training places for GPs. I think the number has increased to 193 this year. There has been a big percentage increase. I do not have the exact figure to hand. That will help with availability. Many GPs find it difficult to get replacements when they are under pressure and cannot manage, when they need time off and when they are putting together rotas and rosters.

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