The investigation and management of the Covid-19 pandemic is facing a potential major blow following a decision by HSE public health doctors - who are key to controlling the virus - to vote in favour of industrial action, up to and including strike action. The results of a special ballot this evening showed that 94pc voted in favour of industrial action. Speaking following the vote, Dr. Ina Kelly, Chair of the IMO Public Health Committee, said: “This is a fight for the future of Public Health Medicine in Ireland. The refusal to follow international best practice and recognise consultant status and provide consultant contracts for suitably qualified Specialists in Public Health Medicine and the inadequate staff and resources for Public Health Medicine can no longer be tolerated. We will take industrial action in order to save Public Health Medicine in this country and to help make it fit-for-purpose.

Source: Irish Independent November 27, 2020 18:00 UTC