JUNIOR DOCTORS ARE expected to vote in favour of industrial action in a ballot by the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) today.

The doctors will be balloted on whether to take action over the lack of progress made on the implementation of the European Working Time Directive and other working conditions, The Medical Independent reports.

Earlier this year, Health Minister James Reilly said that bringing Ireland in line with the EU rules, which would end the practice of junior doctors working shifts of up to 80 hours, was a high HSE priority.

However the IMO has said that the government is now seeking an extra year to fall in line with the rules.

Speaking to the Medical Independent, IMO Director of Industrial Relations Steve Tweed said that junior doctors have been angered by recent comments by Health Minister Reilly on the government’s efforts to improve conditions. He said that the organisation expects a “substantial vote” in favour of industrial action in the ballot later today.

He also said that the IMO is in contact with the EU Commission regarding Ireland’s lack of compliance with the rules and was hopeful of a meeting later this month.