Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

The figures mentioned by the Minister are fine but the HSE claims that we need to have 250 training places every year for new GPs. I asked the Minister if he has any proposals with regard to the career structure. References to salaried GPs and the type of flexibility so many new GPs are looking for were seen as a threat to existing GPs. This does not have to be a threat. There is no problem with leaving existing GPs doing the business they way they are doing it, in some cases single-handedly in long-established GP practices in which they have invested and so on. That is all fine. That need not be interfered with, but will the Minister accept that there is a need for a new model for younger GPs who want that flexibility and better quality of life? Many GPs, including female GPs, want to job-share or work part time. They want that type of flexibility. Is the Minister considering salaried GPs? This was offered by his predecessor, but I know it was blocked for union reasons. Would the Minister consider it at this point?

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