Dr Alan Stout, BMA NI Council Chair commented, “Today’s budget has allocated £1.5 billion to Northern Ireland. This means the Department have run out of reasons not to support, value and pay staff properly. We need to settle all outstanding pay disputes now, pay the DDRB uplift we are still waiting for from last year  and finally, properly cover GP indemnity costs.

“Only by doing this will they stabilise the health service here and give us the space to move forward with a proper plan to address the long standing issues across health.”

Dr Frances O’Hagan, NIGPC chair added, “The budget looks like it could be good news and bad news for GPs. While we hope the allocation to Northern Ireland can address some of the issues the costs GPs as employers will now face in terms of changes to the increase in national insurance will be an additional financial pressure.”

 

/////ENDS 

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.