John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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191. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to start unwinding the FEMPI cuts introduced in previous years to general practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27614/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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As a consequence of the severe difficulties arising from the economic and fiscal crisis of recent years, it was necessary between 2009 and 2013 to reduce certain payments to health professions, including GPs under the GMS contract. These changes were given effect under the terms of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (FEMPI) Act 2009.

The Government has provided for the gradual unwinding of FEMPI measures under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2015 and I recognise that action has been taken in relation to public service pay levels in this regard. I am examining the avenues that could be taken in relation to private contractors, including GPs and pharmacists, having regard for the need to ensure best value for public spending and the Government's commitment to continue to develop and strengthen primary care services.