Resident doctors in Northern Ireland have voted in favour of a pay offer from the Department of Health (DoH). In a referendum that closed this week, 94.3% of resident doctors voted to accept the pay offer. 

Resident doctors will now receive an additional 4% pay uplift to the 2023/2024 payscale and have agreed to establish a timeline for contract reform. The agreement also includes the rollout of changes to enhance medical education for resident doctors. 

Commenting on the referendum result, Dr Fiona Griffin, chair of BMA’s Northern Ireland resident doctors committee said, “We are glad that members have accepted our recommendation to accept this pay offer.

Taking industrial action was a last resort, but resident doctors could not keep working as they were without financial recognition for the incredible job they are doing under extremely difficult circumstances. We have been undervalued for too long. 

“This pay agreement is the first step towards full pay restoration. We still have a long way to go. Our members are committed to addressing years of pay erosion and making sure that the skills, knowledge and commitment of resident doctors in Northern Ireland is properly recognised. 

“We will now work with the Department to address the inadequacies in our current contract and continue to fight for better terms and conditions for resident doctors, alongside restoring our pay to 2008 levels. These issues need to be addressed urgently so we don’t lose more doctors from our health service. Our fight continues.”

///////ENDS 

Notes to editors

Referendum result: Yes vote 94.3%; no vote 5.74%; turnout 61.48%

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.