Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I cannot give a definitive timeframe for that because these processes require two sides being willing to negotiate an outcome. When we engaged with the GPs, for example, a massive amount of intensive work was required. When we engaged with GPs and then with nurses, after they took the significant step of industrial action, which they did not take lightly, both sides had requests. It will be similar in this instance.

The Deputy correctly referred to the Sláintecare report. The country absolutely needs more consultants and we must examine the pay of those consultants, but we also must examine how we provide our health services and implement the recommendations of the Sláintecare report. I expect both sides, including the health service management side, to have a list of requests regarding how to ensure that we can recruit and retain more consultants, pay them properly, respect them and give them good working conditions, and also on what the health service will look like over the course of the delivery of Sláintecare. The question of when will be a matter for the Government to consider. I am currently engaging with my colleagues on that.

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