A dispute between the HSE and junior doctors over a bid to cut their overtime and allowances has been settled, the High Court heard today.
The settlement follows the withdrawal by the HSE of its controversial cuts in return for a strict timetable for the introduction of new rosters and an overall new contract.
The proceedings were initiated last month but Mr Justice John MacMenamin was told today the matter had been fully settled and he struck out the proceedings.
As part of the settlement deal, negotiations are to take place between the HSE and the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) about the introduction of new rosters for non-consultant hospital doctors by July. The rosters would be in compliance with the European Working Time Directive in limiting the working week, on average, to 48 hours.
The sides are also expected to agree to enter into negotiations on a new contract for non-consultant hospital doctors to be introduced by Christmas. All existing agreements will lapse if no agreement on a new contract is reached by the end of the year.
In the action, six doctors and the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) had alleged breach of contract by the HSE in changing the conditions of their employment.
Talks took place between the sides throughout yesterday before a hearing for an injunction restraining implementation of the charges was due to begin and the settlement was arrived agreed.
The six non-consultant hospital doctors claimed the cuts proposed, including reduction of overtime rates, suspension of training grants and discontinuation of various allowances, represented a manifest and unilateral alteration of their contracts of employment. The HSE denied the proposals amounted to breach of contract.