A new report to Government on the progress of resumed negotiations between health service employers and hospital consultants on new contracts says that this week will be critical as to the shape and direction of the talks.
The report from the chairman of the independent talks, Mark Connaughton, says that while there are still many matters in dispute, there was a comprehensive discussion on all issues during two days of intensive negotiations last week.
The barrister says the spotlight is on everyone in the process and he has 'no intention in perpetuating the discussions for one day longer than is necessary'.
A particularly thorny issue is the contract on offer from the Health Service Executive, he says.
Consultants want a range of contract options and he anticipates this will continue to cause difficulty.
While the HSE wants to introduce a new contract, consultants are still pressing for a variation to the existing contract.
Mr Connaughton says he remains of the view that the talks should be concluded within a matter of weeks.
