Fine Gael National Press Office
Press Statement by Jerry Buttimer TD
Cork South Central

Friday, 2nd November 2012

Fine Gael Cork South Central Deputy and Chairperson of the Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children, Jerry Buttimer, has said Labour Relations Commission (LRC) recommendations on reform of consultant work practices must now be implemented. Deputy Buttimer was speaking following release by the Irish Hospital Consultants Association (IHCA) of survey results showing that 57% of respondents support the LRC recommendations.

“The results of a survey of members by the IHCA show that a majority support the IHCA proposals. This support now needs to be actioned and the implementation of the Labour Relations Commission recommendations should proceed as soon as possible.

“The positive outcome from the survey places an obligation on the representative organisation to act on the views of the majority of respondents. The IHCA has confirmed that 57% of its members who responded to its survey favoured proposals recommended by the Labour Relations Commission. The IHCA should now engage in a process with the HSE and Department of Health to ensure that the reforms are implemented.

“When delivered, the proposals of the LRC have the potential to secure a saving of €220 million each year. The proposals will ensure senior doctors will be available any five out of seven days, including at weekends and nights. This will mean quicker decision making.  Clearly these proposals have the potential to deliver real reforms which will benefit patients while securing significant cost savings.  There is now an onus on all parties to put the proposals into effect as soon as possible.

“While progress has been slower than would have been hoped, the cooperation of all parties has already secured the delivery of some reform and savings.  I acknowledge the contribution of consultants in achieving an increase of 20% in productivity and in saving 70,000 bed days as has been set out by the IHCA. I understand that consultants have a number of practical concerns and I hope that the HSE can address any legitimate practical impediments so that the recommendations can be implemented.”

Ends

Posted under Blog, National Work, Politics

Fine Gael TD, Jerry Buttimer, has confirmed that he will contest the next General Election in the Cork South Central constituency.

“The Constituency Commission Report recommended significant changes to Cork South Central.  Since the publication of the report I have carefully considered its impact.  I can confirm that it is my intention to continue my on-going commitment to the people of Cork South Central and to contest the next General Election as a Fine Gael candidate in Cork South Central constituency.

“In seventeen months as a TD, and as chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children, I have worked on important local and national issues.  I have led the Committee’s work on alcohol misuse and on the early stages of developing legislation to put child protection guidelines on a statutory footing.  I will continue to work on local and national issues in the interests of the people of Cork South Central and the wider public.

“At the 2011 General Election, Fine Gael won two of the first four seats in Cork South Central.  I believe that the delivery of commitments in our Programme for Government and our strong team in Cork South Central will ensure that we retain two seats in the constituency at the next General Election.

“While the changes set out in the Commission’s report make it more difficult for candidates, it is a sign that our Government is delivering on political reform. When implemented, the changes of the Constituency Commission will deliver on a commitment in the Programme for Government to reduce the number of TDs.  This is just one element of a series of reform measures which will also see the number of local authorities reduced across the country and a referendum being put to the electorate on the future of the Seanad.”

Posted under Carrigaline, Cork City, Douglas, Politics, South Central, South East, South West

Fine Gael Cork South Central Deputy, Jerry Buttimer, has this evening (Monday) said he supports calls to withdraw the pensions of politicians who are found guilty of corruption or misconduct. Deputy Buttimer was speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the Grange Frankfield Fine Gael Branch.
 
“Politicians are elected by the people to serve all of the people; not vested interests or golden-circles.  If a politician betrays that trust there must be consequences. It is wrong that someone who acted inappropriately can retire without any significant personal consequence and that they can continue to have the benefit of excessive lumps sums and overly generous pensions.  This must be stopped.
 
“I agree with suggestions that laws should be put in place that permit the withdrawal of pensions of politicians who have been found guilty of corruption or misconduct.  The Mahon Tribunal has recommended that the sanctions contained in the Public Bodies Corrupt Practices Act 1889, which includes withdrawing pension entitlements, should be extended to Oireachtas members.
 
“There may be difficulties in enacting retrospective legislation but it can be put in place for current and future Oireachtas Members.  The recommendations in the Mahon Report should be acted on.  This is one measure which can be implemented quickly.
 
“The Government should consult with the Attorney General to see if it is possible to implement similar legislation which will have the same effect where former Oireachtas members who have been criticised in tribunal reports are concerned.
 
“There must be severe consequences for corrupt activities.  Corrupt civil servants and politicians should be held to account. I believe this should include measures to reduce or withdraw their pension entitlements.”

Posted under Justice & Equality, National Work, Politics