Written answers

Tuesday, 16 October 2012

Photo of Terence FlanaganTerence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Health if he will review the working practices of all junior doctors in hospitals here in view of the fact that it is reported that junior doctors are working continuously for up to 36 hours without breaks in some hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44864/12]

Photo of James ReillyJames Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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S.I. No. 494 of 2004 European Communities (Organisation of Working Time) (Activities of Doctors in Training) Regulations 2004, which transposed the EU Working Time Directive, provides for:

- A maximum 48 hour average working week;

- 11 hours rest every 24 hours or equivalent compensatory rest before return to work; and

- 35 hours continuous rest per week or twice a fortnight or 59 hours continuous rest per fortnight.

In January 2012, Ireland submitted to the EU Commission a detailed Plan for the achievement of compliance by NCHDs with the Working Time Directive. The plan affirmed Ireland's commitment to achieving compliance with the Directive over a three-year time period. It committed to implementing measures to compliance, including:-

a. The implementation of new work patterns for medical staff;

b. Transfer of work undertaken by NCHDs to other grades;

c. Organisation of hospital services to support EWTD compliance.

The HSE established a EWTD National Working Group in late 2011 to build on the work undertaken in this area since 2009 and accelerate EWTD compliance for NCHDs employed across the public health service. This Group is working with hospitals on the measures required in each site to reduce NCHD working hours and to ensure that the necessary changes are given effect.

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