Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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365. To ask the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to a campaign by non-consultant hospital doctors (details supplied); his response to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60114/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware from correspondence and engagement with the IMO and also meetings I have had with NCHDs throughout the country, that NCHDs hours of work, in particular shifts of or in excess of 24 hours is an issue that needs to be resolved as a priority. While progress was made in reducing the extent of such shifts following the IMO's '24 no more' campaign, too many NCHDs are still working excessive hours.

My Department and the HSE are engaged with the IMO at present regarding implementation of the terms of the current NCHD Contract. Measures to reduce NCHD hours and elimination of shifts of 24 hours or more is a key part of this engagement.

I announced the establishment of a National Taskforce to focus on the NCHD workforce in September 2022 recognising that NCHDs are a critical part of the health service. We must recognise their importance and work to ensure that they achieve a better work/life balance. The purpose of the Group is to put in place sustainable workforce planning strategies and policies to address and improve the NCHD's experience to support present and future retention of NCHDs in Ireland.

In relation to shifts of or exceeding 24 hours my position is clear, such shifts must be eliminated as soon as possible.