As you will be aware, since the publication of the Conal Devine Report on the role of the enhanced Community Ophthalmic Physician grade we have sought to progress our outstanding issues for COPs but unfortunately have not been able to do so to date, due to an unwillingness on the part of the HSE/Department of Health to engage on the matter. We have been seeking a forum for engagement on the matter and indeed appropriate resourcing of the proposed changes to the grade.

 

As you may be aware under the recent Public Service Pay Agreement, a process called sectoral bargaining was also agreed which allows for certain outstanding awards and claims to be dealt with. We are of the view that the COP claim can be advanced through this process and we are seeking to have same included in the process once same is underway which is expected to be in the later summer months.

 

We will update all members further firstly in the event that is agreed that the matter be dealt with in this process and then further as the process develops.