HCSA - the hospital doctors' union has today opened a consultation of consultant and SAS doctors in Northern Ireland on NHS pay. Members are being asked whether they are willing to take strike action and/or action short of strike over pay.

Pay erosion has seen pay fall behind that of consultants and SAS doctors in England, Wales and Scotland, contributing to colleagues leaving to work in the Republic of Ireland and the erosion of our professional standing.

Governments in neighbouring jurisdictions have identified resources to improve terms and conditions this year. Thus far there has not been a commitment in Northern Ireland to a pay award which recognises the skills, professionalism and expertise of senior doctors, with issues of recruitment and retention left unaddressed. The recent Budget represented a 2.3% cut in health spending.

This electronic consultation will close on Monday 3rd June. HCSA's next steps will be determined by the democratic decision of members.

In the meantime, HCSA will continue to engage through all available channels to press the case for an end to pay erosion.

Members seeking guidance on the consultation should contact HCSA on conspec@hcsa.com or 01256 770999.