Doctors’ union to recommend acceptance of public sector pay deal

The leadership of the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO), the representative body for doctors, tonight agreed that it will recommend its members accept the Haddington Road proposal.

The union will now put the proposal to a ballot of its members in the coming weeks – but the decision is something of a coup for the Government in light of the fact that the IMO was among the most vocal opponents of the now shelved Croke Park II deal.

The union withdrew from those talks, with director of industrial relations Steve Tweed claiming the proposals would have a “catastrophic impact” on members’ earnings, working conditions, and patient care.

Tonight, following a meeting of the union’s council, Mr Tweed said the leadership had agreed the Haddington Road proposal “marks progress” for the union’s members and “vindicates” the decision to walk out of the Croke Park II talks.

“It is far from perfect,” he added. “Council members expressed deep concern that the continued policy of reducing spending will negatively impact on the ability of doctors to deliver best quality care.”