In 1991, the Labour Court recommended a 15% pay increase for non-consultant hospital doctors, payable in three stages from May 1991 to September 1992. The recommendation was dated 14 January 1991.
The Irish Medical Organisation sought a 40% increase, arguing doctors’ pay had fallen behind comparable health service grades and many worked long hours. Public Voluntary Hospitals opposed the claim, citing previous pay increases and concerns about public expenditure. The Court found merit in an increase, but not at the level sought, and recommended staged implementation. It also noted that management and the Irish Medical Organisation had accepted reimbursement of 90% of the net cost of medical defence subscriptions.