The National Council of the Irish Hospital Consultants Association (IHCA) has ruled out industrial action in response to the Government's plan to cut consultants' salaries.
The IHCA met this morning to formulate a response to wage cuts announced in Wednesday’s budget.
Under new terms outlined in the Budget, consultants who earn more than €200,000 will see their pay cut by 15 per cent while those earning between €150,000 and €200,000 face cuts of 12 per cent.
"The Association remains understanding of the need for a 15 per cent reduction as recommended by the Review Body on Higher Remuneration," the IHCA said in a statement.
"We are meeting with the Minister for Health & Children on Tuesday next to ensure that the proposed cuts are applied on the same basis as they will apply to all other comparable public servants.”
It will hold discussions with the Minister for Health Mary Harney on Tuesday.
After the meeting which lasted nearly four hours, the IHCA pointed out that it was still owed a 15 per cent wage increase under terms of the new consultant contract which was agreed last year.
It said that taking a further cut would mean some of its members would be asked to take a 30 per cent reduction in their salaries.