SDLP Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath has called for talks to avert industrial action from junior doctors.
Mr McGrath urged health officials to engage with junior doctors and listen to their legitimate concerns.
South Down MLA Mr McGrath said:
“Junior doctors balloting for strike action is a symptom of how desperate pay and conditions have gotten for them.
“I met the BMA Junior Doctors Committee a few weeks ago and they highlighted their desperation at working conditions, a legacy of underpay and feeling totally undervalued. The junior doctors of today are the consultants and GPs of the future – it’s imperative that we treat them right.
“I urge the Department of Health and health trusts to do all they can to work with the doctors and prevent this walk out which will invariably hurt patients and put more pressure on the system. Unfortunately, this is the only method the junior doctors have remaining to make their point.”
ENDS
CLANRYE NEWS 