Doctors' ballot on industrial action to open next week

British Medical Association calling for pay uplift

A ballot of doctors on the Isle of Man will open next week to determine whether to take industrial action in a row over pay.

The British Medical Association announced last month that it would put the matter to a vote, as it seeks a 12.6 percent uplift for the 23/24 financial year.

You can find out more HERE.

The ballot, which will be the first of its kind on the Island, will take place from 19 November to 23 December.

Professor Phillip Banfield, Chair of Council at the BMA, says: "I’ve heard from doctors on the Isle of Man how deeply frustrated they are.

"They are over stretched and underpaid. Resident, consultant and SAS doctors across the UK have successfully taken action and started the journey to restoring the relative lost value of their pay for the work they do. 

"Doctors on the Isle of Man deserve the same. The BMA stands ready to support Manx doctors in fighting for appropriate recognition of their skills and expertise."

The CEO of Manx Care, Teresa Cope, recently told Manx Radio the health body is 'not even close' to settling this pay dispute with the BMA.

Manx Care says since it was established in April 2021, the organisation has 'taken the lead on pay negotiations with doctors and dentists'.

Since April 2021, Manx Care has made the following pay offers during this time:

• 3 percent for the 2021/22 financial year (offer accepted by the BMA)
• 6 percent for the 2022/23 financial year (offer accepted by the BMA) + £1,000
• 6 percent for the 2023/24 financial year (offer rejected by the BMA)
• 4 percent for the 2024/25 financial year (offer rejected by the BMA)

Manx Radio has contacted Manx Care for comment.