IMO Consultant Update on HSE Circular Extended Working Day/Week Arrangements
We refer to HSE circular 009/2025 on Extended Working Day/Week Arrangements which is applicable to all health service employees.
In the context of IMO engagement on same we have ensured there are specific clauses within the circular which;
- Ensures any rostering arrangements can only be in line with existing contractual arrangements. The circular does not change your current contractual arrangements and this is specifically stated within the circular:
“In relation to consultant rostering, it is noted that the POCC23 provides for 6/7 rostering only and the provisions of this circular do not supersede that contract. Rostering principles, notice periods and work plan contractual provisions must be adhered to in any rostering arrangements. For those consultants on the 2008 contract, the provisions of that contract and the LRC agreement of September 2012 “Consultants implementing the Public Service Agreement” are applicable.
- For consultants on POCC any rostering of 37 hours is 5/6 Monday – Saturday (Between 8am and 10pm Monday to Friday and 8am-6pm Saturday both extendable to midnight by agreement) and must be in line with the Rostering Priniples and with a 3 month notice period to change of workplan. Outside of call, the POCC23 contract does not provide for Sunday working, and where your employer requests you to work Sunday this is voluntary and is payable at Sunday premium (i.e. double time).
- For consultants on 2008 contract rostering is in line with contract provisions and the specific criteria associated with the LRC Agreement of 2012 as they apply to weekend rostering. Outside of your normal 37 hours premium payments apply.
The IMO will be hosting a webinar in the coming weeks to ensure all members on all contracts have a full understanding of their contractual entitlements in terms of hours of work and rostering – in the meantime if you have any queries please contact consultants@imo.ie.
POCC Rostering Principles can be viewed here
Criteria for weekend rostering under 2008 contract (LRC Agreement) can be viewed here
IMO Media Statement can be viewed here
HSE Circular 009/2025 can be viewed here