New health minister's top priority should be above inflation increase for all doctors - trade union chief
The first priority for Stormont’s new health minister should be an above-inflation pay increase for doctors, the chair of British Medical Association’s Northern Ireland council has said.
Dr Alan Stout wants Robbie Butler to get on with implementing a 4% uplift recommended by an independent pay review body – as well as demanding an additional hike on top.
The BMA chief said: “As the new Health Minister, Robbie Butler will need to move quickly to build on the work begun by his predecessor and address the considerable challenges facing our health service.
“It is clear that the system is under immense pressure. Doctors are demoralised and looking for decisive leadership that is prepared to take difficult decisions when the clinical evidence shows change is needed.
“He takes up the role at a time of significant challenge. Consultants, SAS doctors, resident doctors and GPs are all currently in formal dispute with the Department of Health over a range of issues, including the ongoing delay to this year’s pay uplift and the continuing erosion of doctors’ pay.
“We urge him to engage with these issues as a matter of urgency.
“The Minister’s immediate priority should be to implement in full the 2025/26 DDRB recommendation and commit to an additional above-inflation pay uplift for all doctors in Northern Ireland as part of a clear pathway towards full pay restoration.
“General practice also requires a sustainable long-term funding solution. Significant investment in core general practice is needed to stabilise services and ensure practices can meet growing patient demand.
“Without that foundation, ambitions to move towards a neighbourhood model of care will be impossible to realise.
“We look forward to working constructively with Mr Butler to address these challenges and will be seeking an early meeting with him to discuss the urgent action required.”
The Ulster Unionist Party supports medical staff in Northern Ireland – including doctors and nurses in local hospitals – being paid the same as their counterparts in other parts of the United Kingdom.