Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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427. To ask the Minister for Health the number of meetings he has had with general practitioner representative organisations including organisations (details supplied) in relation to talks on the new general practitioner contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43639/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Government is committed to engaging with the representatives of general practitioners on the development of a package of measures and reforms to modernise the GMS Contract.

The goal is to develop a contractual framework that has a population health focus, providing in particular for health promotion, disease prevention and for the structured care of chronic conditions. This will enable general practitioners to better meet the needs of patients and will also promote general practice as a viable and rewarding career for both existing doctors and future medical graduates.

I have not met with either of the organisations referred to by the Deputy in relation to the talks on the GMS contract this year.

However, officials from my Department and the HSE are due to recommence engagement with GP representatives shortly.