irish dental union
ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Irish Dental Union 2013
Council 2013 President Dr Sean Malone
Honorary Treasurer Dr Nuala Carney
GP Group Rep Dr John Nolan
Vice President Dr Andrew Bolas
Honorary Membership Officer Dr Ryan Hennessy
HSE Dental Surgeons Group Dr Padraig Halvey*
Kerry Branch Rep Dr Rose-Marie Daly
JIDA Rep Dr Seamus Sharkey
Orthodontic Group Rep Dr Ronan Perry
Munster Branch Rep Dr Maire Brennan
CED Rep Dr Tom Feeney
Elected Members Dr Gillian Smith Dr Saoirse O’Toole
South Eastern Branch Rep Dr Eimear Norton
President Elect Dr Peter Gannon Honorary Secretary Dr Mark Condon Honorary Secretary Designate Dr Maher Kemmoona
Metro Branch Reps Dr Adrian Loomes Dr Dermot Kavanagh
GP Group Rep Dr James Turner
Western Branch Rep Dr Peter Gannon North Eastern Vacant Eastern Vacant North Western Vacant Midland Vacant
Executive Committee President Dr Sean Malone
President Elect Dr Peter Gannon
Honorary Sec. Designate Dr Maher Kemmoona
Hon Membership Officer Dr Ryan Hennessy
Vice President Dr Andrew Bolas
Honorary Secretary Dr Mark Condon
Honorary Treasurer Dr Nuala Carney
GP Group Rep Dr James Turner
HSE Dental Surgeons Group Dr Iseult Bouarroudj
Trustees Dr Martin Holohan
General Practice Group
Dr Garrett McGann
Dr Jane Renehan
HSE Dental Surgeons Group
Dr Peter Moran
President Dr Iseult Bouarroudj
North Eastern Dr Rosarii McCafferty
Eastern Branch
North Eastern
Vice President Dr Padraig Halvey
North Munster Dr Joe Green
Dr James Turner
Dr Tom Rodgers President Elect Dr Frances O’Callaghan
North Western Dr Andrew Bolas
Honorary Secretary Dr Siobhan Doherty
South Eastern Vacant
Dr Ryan Hennessy
Eastern Vacant
Western Dr Vicky Rowan
North Western
Kerry Vacant
Co Opted Drs Grainne Dumbleton Dr Jane Renehan
Chair
Kerry
Dr Peter Gannon
Metro Branch
North Munster
Dr Niall MacDonogh
Vacant
Dr John Nolan Dr Sean O’Seachnasai
South Eastern
Midland Vacant
Dr Stephen Moore Munster Vacant
Co-Opted
Metro Dr James Flahavan
Dr Eamon Croke Midlands Dr Maeve O’Connor Munster Vacant
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
2
Elected Drs Evelyn Connolly Dr Barney Murphy
As of December 31, 2013 *Replaced by Dr Iseult Bouarroudj in 2014.
Contents
MISSION STATEMENT The IRISH DENTAL UNION exists to represent the honour and integrity of the profession. It represents dentists in all dealings and negotiations with government and other relevant bodies, and seeks to maintain just and reasonable terms of employment and proper remuneration for dentists.
Chief Executive’s Report
4
Group Reports
10
Committee Members
13
Financial Report
15
Motions for AGM
23
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Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Chief Executive’s Report
1. State schemes
FEMPI 2013 The IDU made a comprehensive written submission to the
Dental Treatment Services Scheme
Minister for Health opposing any further cuts in professional fees paid to dentists and attended an oral hearing in the
Report on expenditure 2013/funding for 2014
Department of Health as part of the review exercise in
Total expenditure on the DTSS for 2013 amounted to €75m,
January.
some €12m ahead of the originally budgeted total for the year.
The IDU was subsequently notified in July that the Minister
There was no change in the number of eligible persons
for Health had completed his review of fees and that no
compared to 2012, while there was a 10% increase in
further cuts to the fees paid to dentists participating in the
attendance and a 10% increase in uptake (around one-third
DTSS would be made in 2013.
of eligible medical card holders attended for care and treatment). Just over €51m was spent on routine, above-the-
DPL concessionary rate members and DTSS
line items of treatment, while the remaining payments of
The Irish Dental Union facilitated a meeting, which took place
around €20m was spent on below-the-line or complex
in October 2013, attended by senior representatives of Dental
treatments. Notable also was the increase of 17% in
Protection and also the HSE to discuss a disputed
payments for care and treatment provided to patients over the
interpretation by the HSE around the level of indemnity cover
age of 75.
being afforded to dentists who had concessionary rate
The continued underfunding of the DTSS and the restrictions
subscriptions with DPL. Proposals to address this dispute
on benefits provided (which is the subject of an imminent
were put forward at that meeting, but final confirmation by
Supreme Court appeal supported by the Union) were the
DPL has been considerably delayed ever since.
subject of continued representations by the Union in 2013. For the first time since the draconian cuts were announced in
Audit requests
2009, Budget 2014 provided for an increase in the DTSS
The Union assisted a small number of dentists whose patients
budget from €63m to €75m, even though an extra €25m had
were contacted by HSE personnel who claimed to be
been sought by the HSE.
undertaking an audit of claims and payments relating to those dentists.
Entry requirements and practice inspections/SOPS
The Union was obliged to protest to the HSE after a small
A significant amount of assistance was provided by the Union
number of members contacted the Union to say that patients
to members who were seeking admission to the DTSS or
under their care had been contacted by a Regional Dental
whose practice colleagues were seeking admission, after new
Inspector employed by the HSE.
pre-contract requirements were introduced unilaterally by the
The letter to patients stated: “The HSE is currently
HSE.
undertaking an audit (sic) of the dental treatment provided under the medical card (Dental Treatment Services Scheme). In order to undertake this audit, it will be necessary for you to visit a HSE dental department." The letter failed to explain whether this was a routine ‘audit’ and was severely damaging to the professional and clinical reputation of the treating dentist, particularly in a rural community. We warned the HSE that the possible financial implication for dentists was alarming and the HSE should be in no doubt as to its exposure to the most serious legal consequences where the professional and commercial reputation of the dentist suffered as a direct consequence. Regrettably, the HSE made no mention in its correspondence of the agreed probity scheme contained in the terms of the
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
4
DTSS contract. The letter suggested that the Inspector will arrange for the patient to meet with a dentist and to provide a questionnaire for completion, both of which provisions were in complete breach of the terms of the scheme agreed between the HSE and the IDA. We believe the use of the term ‘audit’ was completely inappropriate in any event, and what was being proposed was more akin to a probity or disciplinary investigation. The Irish Dental Union advised members whose patients had received such letters that they (the dentists) should resist any attempts to interfere with the agreed terms of the DTSS contract. The Examining Dentists Scheme was introduced in agreement with the IDA and its operation was then suspended following withdrawal by the HSE. We advised members that the HSE had no authority to propose arranging such a clinic and dentists were under no obligation to co-operate with requests associated with this
Publication of payments
audit. Any dentist who received any similar requests was
The Irish Dental Union lodged a complaint with the Office of
advised to respond stating that the HSE had no contractual
the Data Protection Commissioner relating to the online
authority to make such arrangements.
publication by the HSE of payments made to dentists
While we advised dentists that they were not obliged to co-
participating in the DTSS. We first contacted the HSE in May
operate with requests for which no agreed contractual basis
2013 to state that personal data of dentists providing
exists, we remain prepared to discuss the resumed operation
treatment under the Dental Treatment Services Scheme had
of the agreed Examining Dentists Scheme. This was stated
been published on the PCRS website. In particular, a table
repeatedly in recent years, though we have never had the
detailing payments to dentists in 2011 had been published,
courtesy of a reply to this proposal from the HSE. However,
which provided the dentist’s name, the HSE region, local
any engagement would require a clear direction from the HSE
health office, together with the total income earned from the
to inspectorate officials that they should cease contacting
scheme and the dentist’s date of entry to the scheme.
patients or dentists with proposals that have not been agreed
We advised the HSE that the dentists concerned had not given
under the terms of the DTSS contract. Equally, we would need
their consent to such publication.
an undertaking that the HSE will cease making further
however, was the fact that the publication of this information
changes to the operation of the DTSS without consultation or
in a form which becomes available to third parties, naming
agreement with the Union.
beneficiaries and indicating the precise amounts received by
On the basis of such guarantees being provided, we would be
them, constituted an interference with their private life within
prepared to consider any proposals the HSE cared to develop
the meaning of Article 7 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights
with a view to operating a probity scheme, which has the
of the European Union and in breach of both Article 7 and
support and confidence of the profession and on the basis of
Article 8 of that Charter. Similarly, it appeared that there had
the existing agreed contractual provisions.
been a failure by the HSE to consider whether the publication
We would also expect that the HSE would undertake to
on a single, freely-consultable website updated by name
suspend further contact with dentists or patients and would
relating to all of the beneficiaries concerned goes beyond
confirm its suspension of any arrangements on foot of recent
what is necessary for achieving the HSE’s legitimate aims.
contact with patients. It would also be critically important that
We cited the recent European court of Justice cases of Volker
the HSE clarifies that its contact was part of a random and
und Marcus Schecke GbR (C-92/09) and Hartmut Eifert (C-
routine exercise in order to remove any further damage to the
93/09) v Land Hessen. We advised the HSE that a blanket
professional reputation of the dentists concerned.
disclosure such as that undertaken by them, appeared to be
The IDU lodged a complaint with the Data Protection Commissioner over the online publication of payments made to dentists under the DTSS.
Of greater concern,
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Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
in breach of the limits imposed by compliance with the
Dental Treatment Benefit Scheme
principle of proportionality, infringed our members’ rights, and was in breach of the principles set down in the case law.
DTBS expenditure levels 2013 The IDU was informed that the expenditure for the Dental
In the circumstances, we requested that the HSE would
Treatment Benefit Scheme (DTBS) in 2013 is about €2 million
undertake:
ahead of expenditure in the previous year. (Total expenditure
1. to remove the personal data concerned from its website
on the DTBS in 2012 was €8,933,611. It is expected to amount
and any other media; 2. not to disseminate such information with a view to publication by other media; and,
to approximately €11 million in 2013.) This increase in expenditure may be due to changing the eligibility period to a calendar year, which was sought by the IDU last year.
3. not to issue such personal data in breach of our members’ rights in future.
PRSI Scheme update
After the HSE failed to respond to our initial complaints, we
Further to representations made by the Irish Dental Union,
referred the matter directly to the Office of the Data Protection
the Department of Social Protection agreed to change the
Commissioner.
basis on which the entitlement to an annual examination is reckoned.
Administrative difficulties (meeting with PCRS)
Whereas previously, a patient’s entitlement was linked to the
A delegation from the Irish Dental Union met with officials in
date of their last examination; it has now been agreed their
the HSE’s Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) in
entitlement will be decided on the basis of the calendar year.
October. The objective of the meeting was to discuss ways in
This change is now operational. We hope this will allow for
which to improve the administration of the Scheme for IDU
easier administration of the scheme for both dentists and
members. The top five reasons for rejection of claims,
patients.
repetition of clinical necessity, and unexplained zero balances
A meeting of the IDU and officials in the Department of Social
were amongst the topics discussed. It was agreed that the
Protection took place on October 10. The meeting was sought
IDU would continue to meet with the PCRS at regular
by the Association to discuss concerns raised by our
intervals to discuss further ways in which the administration
members regarding the revised format of the ‘D1 application
of the scheme might be improved.
form for dental benefit’. Members had voiced concerns to us regarding the text on the form, which stated that the dentist
Reid and Turner case
had entered details of “all necessary treatment and its cost”
A Supreme Court hearing is still awaited on the appeal of the
in circumstances where an annual examination is the sole
High Court decision regarding the breach of contract we
benefit available under the scheme and where there is no
allege was perpetrated by the HSE, with its decision to issue
space in the form to provide such information.
a circular in April 2010 severely restricting the scope of the
The Department’s representatives explained the wording had
DTSS without any prior engagement with the Irish Dental
been copied from the older version of the form to a new
Union.
format common to all treatment benefit schemes. They agreed to change the wording to remove the reference to “all necessary treatment”. They also confirmed there is no obligation on dentists who might be using this latest version of the form to enter all treatment provided and they will accept the forms without such information. In addition, the Department officials confirmed they will continue to accept older versions of the form, which dentists might have in stock in their practices and will also continue to accept versions which might be printed from a dentist’s software programme.
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
6
2. Promoting greater dental attendance and profitable practice Contact with ICTU and SFA The General Practitioners Committee decided that contact should be made with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions asking that constituent unions be made aware of the entitlement to benefits under both the medical card and PRSI schemes, and that they in turn would make their members aware. This was also brought to the attention of the Small Firms Association. Similarly, 22% of adults (just under 800,000) will hear the ad
Behaviour and Attitudes survey
at least once in the UTV Urban Access network of radio
Ireland’s largest ever research into the behaviour and
stations (FM104, Q102, 96FM, Galway Bay FM, Limerick Live,
attitudes of dental patients was undertaken in 2013 on behalf
LMFM, and East Coast 102-103), with 16% hearing the ad at
of the Irish Dental Association.
least three times and, of the adults reached, they will hear
The IDU ran a radio advertising campaign to promote greater awareness of oral health.
the ad an average of 6.4 times. The key findings covered by the research are:
Just over 500,000 adults (14% of the adult population) are
n the profile of those who attend dentists regularly,
expected to hear the ad at least once on Today FM, while 8%
occasionally, or rarely; n the extent of loyalty to a dentist and what influences loyalty;
of adults are expected to hear it three times - in total there were 42 30-second advertisements broadcast on Today FM over two weeks. The ad will be heard at least three times by
n the satisfaction levels with dentists and patient attitudes;
8% of the adult population and, of these adults reached on
n how dentists compare with other health professionals;
Today FM, they will hear the ad an average of four times.
n the reasons why patients attend or defer treatments;
It is important to note that a radio commercial in isolation is
n attitudes to the cost of dental visits; and,
only ever part of a communication, and is not designed to be
n awareness of good oral health amongst the general public.
the main driver of change in behaviour. It needs to form part
The full results and findings of the research were to be
of a more cohesive communications plan, i.e., if there has
presented by the IDU early in 2014.
been a radical change in behaviour as brought on by the recession (change in behaviour amongst audiences going to
Radio campaign promoting dental visits
the dentist), in order to re-establish a norm, i.e. getting people
The Union decided to arrange a radio advertising campaign
to return to seeing dental visits as a must in overall health
to promote greater awareness of the need to visit your dentist
care, we need to develop repeat and consistent messaging to
regularly and the dangers of neglecting their oral health.
re-enforce this need and not rely on a single communication
Just over one million people were expected to hear the ads at
over a finite period of time, irrespective of frequency of
least once on the 15 local radio stations within the Ireland FM
commercial.
Network (Clare FM, East Coast FM, KFM, KCLR, Highland Radio, Midlands 103, Ocean FM, Radio Kerry, MWR, Shannonside/Northern Sound, South East, Tipp FM, and WLR), while 21% of adults will have heard it at least three times. Of these adults reached, they will hear the ad an average of 6.2 times.
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Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
3. Representation and public affairs
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
8
New dental legislation A comprehensive submission was made to the Department of Health, which launched a public consultation exercise in
Oral health policy review
the summer of 2013.
A major initiative launched in 2013 saw the launch of the first
We emphasised support for stronger safeguards for patients
ever national Oral Health Forum. The forum was organised
and the licensing of dental practices. The Dental Council
by the IDA and the deans of the Dublin and Cork dental
should carry out the inspection of dental practices.
schools and the RCSI Faculty of Dentistry.
The Association believes that the Dental Council should be
The invitation to almost 20 different stakeholders stated that
composed of an equal number of dentists and non-dentists
it is universally acknowledged that a vision for oral health for
while there should be a majority of dentists on fitness to
Ireland is long overdue and that, in these rapidly changing
practice committees. We also believe that dentists should not
times, we need to take ownership of moving on this agenda.
be identified at fitness to practice hearings until and unless
The steering group of the new Oral Health Forum wished to
they are found to have committed sanctionable offences.
see an action plan developed, which would have broad
While dentists support expanding the scope of practice for
support across the profession in Ireland.
hygienists, concern remains that there must be recognition
A day-long summit of dental leaders took place in Dublin
of the fact that only qualified dentists are trained to provide
Dental University Hospital on November 21, 2013. Following
the complete range of dental care and treatments. The role
an opening address by the Secretary General of the
of dentists and their primary role in undertaking full dental
Department of Health - Dr Ambrose McLoughlin - the Chief
examinations and prescribing x-rays needs to be properly
Dental Officer, Dr Dympna Kavanagh, addressed the meeting.
understood and protected in the interests of patients and
Professor Jimmy Steele facilitated the event, which featured
promoting better oral health. The distinction between direct
three keynote speakers, followed by intensive engagement by
access within the dental practice and independent practice
all the attendees and, ultimately, the preparation of a
was strongly emphasised by the IDA. Direct access within the
consensus statement.
practice alongside the dentist could only be supported where
The purpose of the gathering was to build a coalition of
there are clear obligations to ensure dentists regularly
opinion leaders, tasked with formulating an agreed set of
examine patients.
priorities for presentation to Government addressing the oral
Extending the divisions of the specialist register to
health needs of the nation, developing the potential of the
accommodate specialities recognised commonly in common
dental professions, and identifying the key requirements for
law jurisdictions such as the US, Canada, the UK, Australia,
new models of dental care.
and New Zealand was also called for by the IDA. This would
Concise briefing material was prepared and circulated in
ultimately benefit the general public and offer a quality mark,
advance for consideration by all attendees. A professional
which offers transparency and peace of mind to the public.
rapporteur assisted Professor Steele and the steering group
Recognition of dental specialities encourages scientific
to draft a report reflecting the views of the attendees.
advancement, promotes innovation and the highest standards
It was hoped to see the final report published early in 2014
of care, and rewards education and achievement, all of which
and this would be followed by a series of meetings with the
serve to promote the highest standards of dentistry.
Department of Health and other important decision makers
Specialities should only be recognised within fields that
and opinion leaders.
require unique knowledge and skills beyond those possessed
The forum marked a decisive step forward in assembling the
by dental graduates, and which assume a specified period of
various branches of the profession to speak with a united,
post-graduate training or experience. This should not
stronger, and louder voice and we hope to see this initiative
undermine the entitlement of general dental practitioners to
develop further in the years ahead. Particular thanks are
provide aspects of care, which are also provided by specialists,
owed to our partners on the organising committee, especially
assuming they possess the necessary skills, expertise, and
Professor June Nunn, who also made the DDUH meeting
experience.
rooms available for the inaugural summit meeting.
In addition, we called for a repeal of the existing ban on
incorporation of practices, albeit with appropriate safeguards for patients and ensuring that dental enterprises cannot deny redress for patients by hiding behind a corporate mask. Special safeguards would have to be introduced where a nondentist holds the controlling interest in dental practices. The Association also called for an appropriate definition of dentistry to be included in the new legislation, given the dangers faced by non-qualified persons offering to take impressions, and provide tooth whitening and other treatments, which are more appropriately provided by dentists. The dangers associated with clinics that arrange examinations in hotels and other non-clinical settings before arranging treatment (or, very often, over-treatment) overseas, was also mentioned. In a similar vein, we called for strong safeguards to be
evidence to demonstrate any level of risk necessitating such
introduced to regulate advertising. The Association cited the
radical changes or evidence, which supports the thrust of the
criteria adopted by the American Dental Association in its
changes being proposed. It is our belief that the only sure
Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Opinion in regard
result of implementing the changes proposed will be to
to advertising by dentists. The legislation should enable the
further jeopardise the viability of dental practices, to force
Dental Council to identify, regulate, and sanction registrants
ensuing costs to be passed on to patients, and to seriously
and corporate enterprises that engage in false or misleading
diminish the oral health of the nation as attendance dwindles.
advertising.
Therefore, we call on the Dental Council to set aside the draft
Mandatory CPD regulated by the Dental Council was also
as published and to engage in a proper and meaningful
strongly endorsed by the Association.
fashion with all stakeholders to review policy in a manner
The IDU is committed to promoting the highest standard of infection prevention and control.
which can be justified according to risk and viability, and with
Revised Dental Council Code of Conduct Relating to
the aim of ultimately enhancing the oral health of the nation
Infection Prevention and Control
guided by appropriate quality and patient safety standards.
The IDU prepared an extensive submission to the Dental
Given the potential impact of what is being proposed, we
Council on proposed new infection control standards.
believe there is an onus on the Dental Council to produce
In regard to washer-disinfector units, we suggest instead
evidence to support changes in existing policy, rather than on
alternative levels of acceptable standards, which do not
stakeholders to show evidence to refute propositions
assume universal use of washer-disinfectors.
unsupported by evidence.
We take issue with the recommendation of a dedicated
There is a profound responsibility on policy makers, including
decontamination room and suggest, as there is no compelling
the Dental Council, to be fully cognisant of the impact on
reason for such a recommendation, that this should be set
patient attendance and oral health caused by increasing
aside.
regulatory burden. They must also be aware of the
Any recommendations in regard to blood-borne diseases
consequent onus on dental practices to pass on the costs of
should await the publication of revised Department of Health
such extra operating requirements to patients and the
guidance, while also taking account of revised guidance from
inevitable impact on dental attendance and oral health.
the GDC in regard to HIV-positive dentists.
We suggest that a full patient impact assessment (PIA) be
We are supportive and committed to promoting the highest
undertaken by the Dental Council before proceeding further.
standard of infection prevention and control. Members
This should set any perceived risks, i.e., evidence-based risks,
support guidelines that are appropriate, clear, concise,
against the consequences of extra regulatory burden on
enforceable, practical, financially viable, and evidence-based.
attendance and oral health gain.
We are seriously concerned at the absence of any compelling
A copy of our submission is available to view on our website.
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Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
IDU meets Minister for Small Business
be eligible for the guarantee, the business must have applied
An IDU delegation met with Minister for Small Business, John
for credit, and must have been refused for either of these two
Perry TD to explain the difficulties faced by dental practices
reasons.
and to establish the state supports that can be offered to
It provides a 75% state guarantee to banks against losses on
dentists.
qualifying loans to firms. Target groups are commercially
The delegation, led by President Dr Andrew Bolas, included
viable SMEs, i.e., well-performing companies that have a solid
Drs Ray McCarthy, Sean Malone, CEO Fintan Hourihan, and
business plan and a defined market for their products or
Assistant CEO Elaine Hughes.
services, thereby demonstrating their ability to repay the loan.
We advised the Minister that by our estimate over 8,000
The minimum permissible loan value is €10,000 and the
people are directly employed in the dental profession in
maximum is €1,000,000.
Ireland. The overall figure has been reduced by over 1,500 in
Ulster Bank, AIB, and Bank of Ireland are participating in the
the last two years. We took the opportunity to explain that
scheme. Businesses seeking information regarding eligibility
dental practices are small businesses, but unlike doctors in
criteria for the Credit Guarantee Scheme can approach a
general practice, dentists receive no state support.
participating bank following receipt of a decline of their
During the meeting, many issues relevant to dental practices
original loan application.
were discussed, including:
The Minister also explained that Micro Finance Ireland is
n upward-only rent reviews;
being established to assist small businesses which have been
n commercial rates;
refused loans from financial institutions. These will be
n waste costs specific to dental practices; and,
situated in each local authority area and will be able to help
n access to finance.
businesses, such as dental practices, with loan applications, setting up their business, and preparing business plans.
Minister Perry undertook to bring our concerns to the
The Microenterprise Loan Fund was established on October
Advisory Group on Small Business and invited the Association
1, 2012 to improve access to credit for entrepreneurs and
to prepare a written submission on our concerns regarding
microenterprises and to facilitate the growth and expansion
the costs - many of which are state regulated or controlled -
of viable businesses from all industry sectors which have
facing dental practices.
been refused credit by banks. Micro Finance Ireland (MFI) has
The Minister explained that the Credit Guarantee Scheme can
been established to deliver the Government’s Microenterprise
also be availed of by dentists. This scheme has been live since
Loan Fund.
October 24, 2012 and is intended to address market failure
MFI provides support in the form of loans of less than
affecting commercially-viable micro, small, and medium-
€25,000, available to start-up, newly-established, or growing
sized businesses in two specific situations – namely: where
microenterprises employing less than 10 people, with
businesses have insufficient collateral; or, where businesses
commercially viable proposals that do not meet the
operate in sectors with which the banks are not familiar. To
conventional risk criteria applied by banks. Loans are available for start-up costs, business expansion, and working capital. To be eligible for a loan, persons must possess a business plan, must have a commercially-viable proposal, must confirm that they have been refused credit from a bank, and must have the capacity to repay the loan. The potential viability of the business proposal will be the dominant factor in all credit decisions. For more information on the schemes, please see: www.djei.ie and www.microfinanceireland.ie.
An IDU delegation met with Minister of State for Small Business John Perry.
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
10
Finally, the Minister explained that the Credit Review Office headed up by John Trethowan was established in March 2010 to conduct a simple and effective review process of decisions
taken by banks to refuse, reduce, or withdraw credit facilities.
do occasional sessions as cover for other dentists.
Under this review process, the Credit Review Office will accept
In considering this measure, the Dental Council was
applications from microenterprises, SMEs, sole traders, and
aware of these important factors and it did weigh the
small and medium-sized farm enterprises that have had their
matter carefully before arriving at this decision.
application for credit refused or reduced, or have had credit
There are a number of factors behind the Council’s
facilities withdrawn, and feel that the bank’s decision is
decision. First and foremost, under the Dentists Act
unjustified.
1985 the register is intended to be a register of
They will also look at cases where borrowers feel that the
practising and competent dentists. For this reason
terms and conditions of their existing loan, or a new loan offer,
Section 32 of the Act allows dentists who are no
are unfairly onerous or have been unreasonably changed to
longer practicing to have their name removed from
their detriment.
the register.
The review process will review decisions to refuse, reduce, or
In addition, all registered dentists are expected to
withdraw credit facilities (including applications for
comply with Dental Council Codes of Practice,
restructured credit facilities) from €1,000 up to €500,000. The
including
Credit Review Office will, on application from the borrower,
Professional Behaviour and Ethical Conduct. This
carry out an independent and impartial review of the bank’s
Code places an obligation on all registered dentists,
decision.
practising or otherwise, to be competent and fit to
The
Credit
Review
Office
website
is
the
Code
of
Practice
regarding
www.creditreview.ie and they can be contacted by email at:
practice dentistry.
info@creditreview.ie, or telephone number 1850 211 789.
Under the Act, registration is the entry point to the
It was agreed that further dialogue would take place between
profession and all registrants are legally entitled to
the Association and the Minister’s Department to establish
practice dentistry in Ireland. Once registered a
the supports that can be afforded to dental practices,
dentist is free to choose the extent to which he or
recognising they are small businesses also.
she wishes to practice. There are many dentists under the age of 65 who, for a variety of reasons, do
Representations to Dental Council
not work full time in dentistry, but yet are expected
The Union made a number of representations to the Dental
to pay the full retention fee.
Council on behalf of members throughout 2013.
The same obligations are placed on all registrants,
Firstly, the Union protested the decision of the Dental Council
regardless of how much they practice, and the
to impose full registration fees on older dentists, who had
Council is strongly of the view that it is only fair that
previously been obliged to pay a nominal fee. The Council
all registrants pay the same fee.
responded that it was obliged to impose uniform renewal
The Committee has, therefore, decided not to refer
charges on all dentists in active practice.
this matter back to the Council for reconsideration.
Responding to a written protest from the Union, the Registrar
It is important to note that this is a principled
“
of the Dental Council stated as follows:
decision on the part of the Council and not a revenue generating measure. The Council does not expect
I can understand the feelings in some parts of the
this measure to generate any additional income for
profession over the removal of the discount for
the Council, as it is expected that a significant
dentists over 65. I have received a significant
number of non-practicing dentists will avail of the
number of phone calls and letters from the dentists
option to resign from the register.
”
on this matter. I can also understand why some registrants may
The Union also protested at the fact that the Dental Council
wish to retain a link with a profession to which they
website only lists registrants on the specialist divisions of the
have given many years of service, in some cases,
register (oral surgery and orthodontics) and omits to list all
going back to previous generations, and why others
other registered dentists. This unsatisfactory situation
may wish to retain their registration so as they can
remains unresolved as we write.
11
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Tooth whitening/PQD/medical devices/data
DPL – compound life members
protection
The DPL decision to withdraw free compound life
After many years campaigning at EU level, we finally saw the
membership to long-standing members was the source of
enactment of legislative provisions governing the use of tooth-
considerable disquiet. Undoubtedly, the rising cost of
whitening products containing hydrogen peroxide. Detailed
professional indemnity for Irish dentists reflects increasing
guidance was issued throughout the year to members, while
litigation and also higher court awards with attendant legal
the Dental Council and the Irish Medicines Board also
costs. This is not unique to Ireland, or indeed to dentistry.
published guidance jointly.
Ultimately, what is required is serious reforms of the torts
The Union was also involved in making representations to the
system, whereby so much legal expense contributes to the
Minister for Education in regard to the professional
surge in professional indemnity costs for dentists, doctors,
qualifications directive, to the Minister for Health in regard to
and all other professions.
medical devices regulations, and to the Minister for Justice in
The Union formally protested to DPL at the rate of increase
regard to proposed data protection directive. The support of
in indemnity charges in recent years and more particularly at
CED is gratefully acknowledged. It would also be important
the decision by DPL, with effect from January 1, 2014, to
to record the support received from a number of Irish MEPs
withdraw compounded life membership (traditionally
whom we met in Dublin and Brussels, most notably Ms
available to dentists after 40 years' membership) providing
Marian Harkin and Ms Mairead McGuinness.
free professional indemnity cover. Naturally, this has caused tremendous upset to many long-
Tobacco labelling
standing members and Council decided that the Union should
Through our involvement in the Tobacco Control Stakeholder
offer every appropriate assistance and support to the dentists
Group and the CED Working Group on Oral Health, the Union
affected.
supported proposals to restrict the information contained in
Therefore, we took steps to identify alternative protection for
the labelling of tobacco products.
the small number of older members concerned and we identified insurers who may be able to provide an alternative
Revenue Commissioners
where dentists were not prepared to pay the subscription
The Union continued to assist members in dealing with the
charges being sought by DPL. Working with Glennon
policy decided by the Revenue Commissioners regarding the
Insurance, we ensured that a UK insurer offered alternative
tax status of associates and hygienists. The circulation of
quotes to dentists affected by the withdrawal of compound life
detailed guidance prepared by our tax adviser Grant Thornton,
membership.
and revised pro-forma contracts of agreement were
Of course we always caution that dentists need to look not
favourably received by members.
only at the bill, but also to the terms and conditions attached to insurance cover, the need for run-off cover to be arranged,
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
12
Meetings with political representatives
and the availability and quality of advice and representation
Meetings with health spokespersons in 2013 were arranged
by the cover providers.
and involved briefings with the Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on
Beyond the specific issue as it relates to compound life
Health, Deputy Billy Kelleher, in addition to formal meetings
membership, the Union/Association has taken the initiative in
with the newly appointed Minister of State for Primary Care,
introducing the new Dental Complaints Resolution Service,
Mr Alex White. Mr White also attended the annual
which has been very successful in resolving disputes, which
conference and the CED meeting hosted by the Association
might otherwise require expensive legal representation for
in Dublin. The Union and Association regularly update
dentists and ultimately push premia even higher. In
political representatives from all political parties and non-
recognition of the scheme’s success, DPL offers significant
aligned representatives on issues of concern to the
discounts of around €1,000 to general practitioners who are
profession.
members of the Union/IDA.
3. Collective negotiations
Finally, we must insist that the urgent response we were promised two months ago on the issues we
HSE dental reform
tabled at the October 9 meeting is communicated to
The Union was obliged to lodge a formal protest at the
us as soon as possible.
complete lack of priority afforded by the HSE to resuming
In the event that such assurance cannot be provided,
discussions with the Union on dental service reforms
then we reserve the right to register a formal
throughout 2013. This was in spite of huge difficulties being
complaint with the Minister for Health and to seek
experienced by members, as the numbers of dentists and
vindication of our members’ rights at an appropriate
nurses stands at 20% below previous employment levels.
third party.
At the end of the year, we were obliged to write to HSE Oral Health Lead, Dr Dympna Kavanagh, to protest formally. In a
”
letter to Dr Kavanagh, we reminded her that we met with HSE
Haddington Road Agreement
representatives on October 9 and experienced a most
The Union accepted the terms of the Haddington Road
unsatisfactory meeting. None of the established HSE
Agreement in 2013, which contains a number of important
representatives were present to engage with us about the
protections for members working in the public service.
many issues outstanding from the initial reforms process,
The Committee representing the HSE Dental Surgeons Group
never mind dealing with issues that must be addressed before
of the IDU met in June 2013 to consider the Haddington Road
moving on to the second phase of the reforms process.
Agreement (HRA). Following detailed discussion and
Subsequently, we received a letter from the HSE dated
consideration, the Committee decided to accept the
October 14, which recorded the many concerns we tabled at
Agreement.
that meeting and were assured we would receive confirmation
The decision to accept the HRA was made in light of the
of the commitment of the HSE to these reforms and an urgent
Government’s powers to invoke the measures set out in the
response to specific issues raised at that meeting.
Agreement under the Financial Emergency in the Public
Two months later, we had not received any further
Interest (FEMPI) Act, 2013; the commitment in the Agreement
communication or any confirmation by the HSE of its
with regard to the restoration of pay and the reintroduction
commitment to this reform process. Meanwhile, there was
(albeit at a delayed interval) of increments; the assurance of
mounting chaos and confusion in dental services across the
certain safeguards provided for originally in the Croke Park
country
are
Agreement, such as the reaffirmation of the Government’s
encountering the most severe pressures in maintaining
commitment in relation to compulsory redundancy; and, the
dental services as resources are depleted further.
limits to the scope of redeployment.
where
already
hard-pressed
dentists
To make matters worse, we see arbitrary management decisions being made regarding the deployment of staff and
The IDU accepted the Haddington Road Agreement in 2013.
without any willingness to discuss any such changes with staff representatives.
“
Both our negotiating team and myself can only imagine the excoriation we would endure if we were to show such scant regard and disrespect in our behaviour. Can I therefore ask that you direct that all appropriate resources are given to ensuring that the HSE re-engages with the reforms process and ensures that the full terms of the existing public service agreement are honoured in all services for the duration of any such further negotiation?
13
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
We have set out below a summary of the details of the HRA
Increment freezes
as they may affect the member. Should any member have any
n Salary below €35,000 – one three-month increment
query or comment or require any clarification, advice, or
freeze. To take effect after next increment is paid. The
representation in relation to the enclosed, or to any aspect of
following increment will be awarded in 15, rather than 12
the HRA, they are asked to please contact IDA House.
months. n Salary between €35,000 and €65,000 – two three-month
Additional working hours
increment freezes. To take effect after next increment is
n Those working a 35-hour week or less (net of rest breaks)
paid. For two consecutive years there will be a 15-month
will increase to a minimum of a 37-hour week.
period between increment dates.
n Those working greater than a 35-hour week, but less than 39 hours, will increase to a 39-hour week.
n Salary above €65,000 – two six-month increment freezes. To take effect after next increment is paid. The following
n Working hours of those currently working 39 hours or greater will remain unchanged.
two increments will be awarded in 18 months or equivalent if the increment date is longer.
The implementation of the additional hours will be on the
n Salary above €100,000 – incremental progression will be suspended for three years.
basis of the following phased arrangements: n the first two hours and 15 minutes will be implemented
Pensions
from July 1, 2013; n any remaining liability will be implemented from July 1, 2015;
Separate to the HRA, the Government aligned reductions in public service pensions (for pensions greater than €32,500)
n there will be pro-rata changes for job sharers and parttime workers; and,
with the pay reductions provided by the HRA being applied to serving staff. This was provided for by the Financial
n members can opt to retain their current hours with appropriate pay adjustments.
Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2013. This Act also provides for a grace period for employees who retire between July 1, 2013 and the end of August 2014 (since
Pay reductions
extended to July 1, 2015) and whose pay is reduced due to the
Pay reductions will apply to remuneration to those on
HRA pay cuts. These employees qualify for the grace period
salaries of €65,000 and greater.
concession of having their pension and lump sum awards
Table:
based on their higher (pre-cut) rates. This cohort of retirees
Annualised amount of Remuneration
Reduction
is, however, subject to the new Public Service Pension
5.5%
Reduction on their pensions with effect from July 1, 2013,
Any amount up to €80,000 Any amount over €80,000 but not over €150,000 Any amount over €150,000 but not over €185,000 Any amount over €185,000
8%
where those pensions exceed €32,500.
9% 10%
Redeployment n For those on salaries above €65,000 to the max of the
The provisions of the Croke Park Agreement (CPA) were
principal (higher) scale or equivalent (this includes
unchanged, i.e., 45km from current work location or home
principal dental surgeons at the top of the scale), the
address, whichever is shorter.
reduction in pay will be restored to the pay rate that they would have had but for the pay reduction, within a
Redundancies
maximum of 18 months at the end of this three-year
Voluntary redundancy
Agreement. The restoration will be in two equal phases –
The
the first after nine months, on April 1, 2017, and the
redeployment is not an option and taking into account the
second nine months later.
business needs of an organisation. In such situations, there
n Salaries above €100,000 will be permanently reduced by the above percentages.
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
14
HRA
provides
for
voluntary
departures
where
will be discussions with the relevant union on the terms of any arrangement.
Compulsory redundancy The
Government’s
commitment
on
no
compulsory
redundancies given in the CPA continues, subject to an agreed flexibility on redeployment being delivered.
We circulated the full text of the Haddington Road Agreement to members, along with a frequently asked questions document on both the HRA and the FEMPI legislation prepared by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
Regularisation of long-term actors in the HSE The Irish Dental Union has been pursuing the right of
Regularisation of acting posts – main features of
members in long-term acting posts to have these positions
HSE circular
regularised and remunerated accordingly. In addition to
1. The process will be cost and WTE neutral.
bringing cases on behalf of individual members to the Labour
2. The substantive post to be filled must be vacant. There
Relations Commission, we have been pursuing this in national discussions with the HSE.
will be no backfilling of any consequential vacancy. 3. Eligible actors must have acted on a continuous basis for
Similarly, this issue has been the subject of discussion with
at least two years on December 31, 2012 and the acting
other health service unions. The HSE National Director of
arrangement must have continued since that date.
Human Resources has now issued a circular relating to the
4. The process will encompass all grades.
Regularisation of Acting Posts generally. You can view the full
5. Any post filled will have starting pay determined by way
contents of the circular on the HSE website – the main
of the value of any allowance received, added to the basic
provisions are set out below.
rate, and rounded to the nearest point on the new scale.
While we welcome the belated approval by the HSE for
No retrospection will be considered, nor will any
regularisation of staff in long-term acting positions, we retain
incremental credit be given for the period spent acting
concerns about aspects of this circular.
where individuals did not progress on the higher scale
The HSE circular states that no incremental credit will be given for the period spent acting. The IDU believes this is unacceptable and unfair and are prepared to challenge this at the Labour Court where individuals are denied such credit.
during the course of their acting.
Incremental credit
6. Persons who may not have been in receipt of the acting
It is important to explain that these terms were not agreed
allowance will also be included in this process, provided
with the Irish Dental Union and, for example, the circular
that there is documentary evidence showing the individual
states that no incremental credit will be given for the period
as being in an acting position and carrying out the full
spent acting.
responsibility of the position.
We believe this is unacceptable and unfair and are prepared
7. The HSE is changing the acting arrangements to cover
to challenge this at the Labour Court where individuals are
periods of absence. From October 1, 2013 there will be no
denied such credit.
payment for any temporary appointment. Staff will be
Neither does the circular address the anomaly where some
expected to take on the role, provided the period of
individuals were moved onto the salary and incremental scale
absence does not exceed three months. Where there is a
of the post to which they were elevated, while others retained
prior knowledge that the absence will exceed three
their existing salary on their substantive pay scale.
months, a temporary appointment to the post may be
There may be other issues which affect members and which
made with the appropriate remuneration.
will require further intervention by the Union.
Again, we would urge all members affected by this issue to
Therefore, we would ask all members likely to be affected by
read the HSE circular carefully and to contact IDA House with
this circular to read its contents carefully and to contact IDA
any queries arising and, where appropriate, for advice and
House to discuss how we can best assist you.
representation.
15
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Public Service Sick Leave Scheme/career
IMRO
breaks/VER
Throughout the year, the IDU advised a number of members
Important changes to the sick leave provisions for staff working
in relation to their obligations under licence agreements with
in the public service were introduced in 2013 following a Labour
IMRO. IMRO sent correspondence to individual members,
Court hearing. There were also important changes introduced
alleging a breach of their licence agreement in circumstances
to enable career breaks and voluntary early retirement. In each
where there was an alleged failure by the individual member
case, detailed advice was sent to IDU members.
to discharge their licence fee. IMRO also stated that, where there was a contract in existence to pay a licence fee, that fee
Dublin Dental Hospital – Contract talks conclude
must be paid until such time as the licence agreement was
Following exhaustive negotiations over the past eighteen
terminated.
months, the negotiating team for part-time staff in Dublin
Following on from two recent court decisions (The European
Dental
favourable
Court of Justice in Societa Consortile Fonografici (SCF) v
consideration of a new revised contract to be offered to all
Hospital
recently
recommended
Marco Del Corsa (case C-135/2010), and the recent Irish case
part-time staff.
of Phonographic Performance (Ireland) Limited (“PPI”) v
The negotiating team – comprising Drs Robert Gorby, Maria
Patrick Burke Shoes Limited), the IDU believe that no liability
Jennings, Niall O’Connor, and Mr Fintan Hourihan – advised
should fall on dentists to hold a licence from IMRO. Members
colleagues it was their considered view that they had secured
are advised that individual licenses may differ in their terms
important benefits, as well as ensuring important safeguards
and therefore the terms of each licence should be reviewed
for members.
and, where necessary, independent legal advice obtained in
For example, all members with four years’ service will now
order to seek to terminate the licence.
be entitled to a contract of indefinite duration, which entitles them to far greater security in continuing to work in the
Health insurers (VHI, DeCare)
Hospital. Pro-rata benefits in terms of sick leave and
The Union had a number of meetings throughout the year
guaranteed progression on members’ pay scales, based on
with both VHI and Decare and both have confirmed that they
the academic year, will also apply. Safeguards in regards to
are seeking the involvement of dentists in providing care to
staff who cannot provide evidence of Hep B/C immunity, or
patients who will then be reimbursed according to the
who contract blood-borne viruses have also been secured.
benefits available under the respective insurance plans with
The possibility of working beyond 65 years-of-age still
VHI and/or DeCare as appropriate.
remains.
The IDU got assurance from VHI that they will continue to
We also secured important protections in regard to the
offer dentists and patients both options (i.e., direct payment
Hospital, requiring the agreement of staff on the number of
or reimbursement) and will not influence patients to attend
sessions worked. Furthermore, it is recognised that part-time
those dentists who will be paid directly by VHI. VHI also
staff cannot be asked to work in another section or to take on
assured the IDU that they intend to review the claim forms
extra duties, which are not commensurate with their
and to give appropriate consideration to the concerns raised
qualifications or experience.
in our meetings.
It is also important to report that the IDU secured recognition from the Hospital that all existing terms and conditions of
Representation of individual salaried members
employment will remain unchanged and now also enjoy the
The IDU represented several individual members in relation
security of being formally recognised as constituting a
to grievances in their employment with their employer.
contractual entitlement.
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
16
4. Benefits and services Tax audit, advice and helpline services for IDU members The introduction of new tax audit and helpline services proved very helpful to members in dealing with legal and commercial disputes. Extensive helpline services were also made available for the first time.
Dentists ART A number of meetings took place between the IDA Board of Directors and representatives of Boyne Trustees to discuss concerns regarding the approved retirement trust (ART) for dentists. Following a meeting in September 2013, the Board decided to extend an invitation to the scheme trustees to share a stand at next year’s annual conference with the Irish
in fact there were plenty of similar schemes, which do not
Dental Credit Union. The Board also offered to encourage IDA
employ the name of any ‘sponsoring’ representative body for
branches to invite representatives of the ART scheme to
the profession or group concerned.
attend branch meetings and, with the permission of the
The Board wished to reaffirm its deep gratitude to all those
branch committee concerned, to be afforded the opportunity
dentists amongst the trustees for the time they have given
to address such meetings.
selflessly to helping dentists arrange their retirement funds
Consideration would also be given to inviting representatives
over many years.
of the ART scheme to address IDA seminars for members on
We would wish to ensure that a strong, supportive relationship
topics such as preparing for retirement or other relevant
between the Association and the ART scheme can develop
topics.
and grow in the coming years, while recognising the mutuality
The Editorial Board would be asked to arrange publication in
of our interests but also our separate identities.
A number of meetings took place between the IDA Board of Directors and representatives of Boyne Trustees to discuss concerns regarding the approved retirement trust for dentists.
the Journal of the Irish Dental Association of information on the ART scheme in a manner similar to the coverage afforded in
Practitioner Health Matters Programme (PHMP)
recent times to the Irish Dental Credit Union.
The PHMP is a new initiative, which it is hoped will provide a
With regard to the governance of the scheme, and noting in
specialist health service for doctors and dentists who have
particular the Pension Board’s recently published Consultation
health problems relating to mental health or substance
on the future of defined contribution schemes, the view of the
misuse disorder (at any level of severity).
Board was that the appointment of an independent
It is generally accepted that practitioners are unlikely to use
professional trustee is essential for the scheme.
existing services due to perceptions of stigma and lack of
In addition, the Board felt it would be desirable for it to receive
confidentiality.
an annual report from the independent trustee upon
n The service will also provide advice, assessment, limited
appointment.
treatment, case management services and, where
We hope that, in the short term, a professional trustee will be
necessary, onward referral to specialist services.
of assistance, and in the longer term, that renewed exposure
n The
service
will
provide
case
management
for
to members of the IDA will increase the numbers in the
practitioners to support them through efficient and
pension scheme and, as a consequence, the numbers
effective treatment and, where appropriate, to get them
available to become trustees.
safely back to work as soon as possible.
With respect to the proposal to rename the scheme, the
n The service will encourage effective use of local primary
Board believed it would not be appropriate to have the
care, occupational health, and specialist services, where
Association’s title employed in the name of the scheme and
these are available and appropriate.
17
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
5. Governance and organisation
Trade Union license application The Irish Dental Union commenced the process of applying for a negotiating licence, having previously secured trade union status. The Union is obliged to submit an application to
Meetings of Executive Committee and Council
the Minister for Jobs Enterprise and Innovation, Richard
There were six meetings of the Executive Committee and
Bruton TD, and to notify other trade unions concerned.
Council in 2013. All were well attended. The introduction of
A deposit with the High Court of â‚Ź25,000 has also been
new monetary compensation payment provisions enabled a
arranged in accordance with the provisions of the trade union
greater level of attendance and participation.
legislation, and it is expected that a decision on the application will be communicated to the Union later in the
Communications with members
year.
The Union arranged extensive communications with members in 2013 with the introduction of the Newsweaver
Committee guidance
facility, which enabled attractive, professionally-produced
Detailed guidance notes were prepared in 2013 for members
flyers and newsletters to be prepared and circulated to
of Council. The guidance documents provide information on:
targeted groups of members. The discussion forum within the
the status of the committees; the purpose of the committees;
members section of the website was also availed of and read
the duties and responsibilities of committee members;
by many members.
membership; the relationship with the secretariat and with
Within the members section of the website, significant new
Council; its tenure; arrangements for notice and conduct of
and additional material was uploaded, thanks primarily to the
meetings; guidelines for Council members; as well as,
extensive work undertaken by the IDA Quality and Patient
information on dealing with conflicts of interest; decision
Safety Committee.
making; and, provision to review the guidance regularly.
The Union also committed significant resources to
The Union committed significant resources to communicating to the membership and beyond through social media.
communicating to the membership and beyond through
Board adopts new three-year strategy plan
social media such as Twitter and Facebook. In a survey of
The Board of Directors has adopted an ambitious three-year
members in July 2013, 85% of the 245 respondents said that
plan, which sets out a map for the next three years. The plan
interaction and communications with members was either
was adopted following an extensive consultation and strategy
very good or good.
planning exercise undertaken over the past three months. Members were surveyed, key external stakeholders were interviewed, and a working group of dentists was formed to develop the plan with the assistance of strategy experts, Prospectus Consulting. The vision for the IDU is to become the authoritative voice of Irish dentistry, focused on realising the full potential of our members. We aim to be recognised as innovative and progressive in achieving excellent oral health for Ireland. Therefore, our mission is to be dedicated to the advancement of the profession and its members, the promotion of oral health and the provision of a quality service to the public. The plan identifies six key strategic objectives for the Association/Union. These are to review and enhance services to support the evolving needs of members; to position the IDU as the leading authority on dentistry and oral health; to consolidate the IDU’s position as the primary provider of CPD and education; to facilitate the development of successful
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
18
practices; to provide appropriate professional representation
n Rule 9.14 – members of a branch/group or committee
and advice; and, to promote quality and patient safety
other than members of the Executive may appoint a proxy,
amongst our members and the public.
such proxy being a member of that committee/branch or
A comprehensive plan of actions under these headings has
group the Council member represents, to attend Council
been developed and an oversight committee is to be
meetings, other than meetings of the Executive
established to monitor progress in implementing the plan.
Committee of the Council, provided always that such proxy attending shall be entitled to a vote.
Members’ survey A major survey of members was carried out in July 2013,
n That this meeting condemns the failure of the Government
attracting 245 respondents, prior to the preparation of a new
to honour its commitment to appoint a Chief Dental Officer
strategic plan. Overall, the satisfaction rating amongst
and reiterates the need to fill this position, which has been
members was extremely high, which was very gratifying.
vacant since 1994, and calls on the Minister for Health to
As 98% of respondents stated that they agreed or strongly
immediately appoint an independent Chief Dental Officer.
agreed that it was important to have a strong, united, and influential voice for dentistry in Ireland, 62% agreed or strongly
agreed
that
services,
representation,
and
performance of the IDA/IDU had improved over the past three
n That the Irish Dental Union calls on the Minister to reverse the cuts to the State Dental Schemes and to prioritise funding to preventive dental care.
years. More than 84% described the service provided by staff in IDA House as being good or very good and 78% said they were satisfied or very satisfied with the services being offered. Over half (54%) felt that membership represented good value for money.
AGM motions/decisions In addition to motions approving the accounts, appointing and remunerating the auditors, and deciding the subscription rates for 2014, the following rule changes and policy positions were decided at the 2013 AGM of the Irish Dental Union. n That Rule 5.1 should be amended to state as follows – "Entrance fees and annual subscriptions shall be such as the Executive Committee of Council may determine at the final meeting in each calendar year following consultation and deliberation by Council.”
Fintan Hourihan CEO
19
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Committee Members 2013
Council 2013 President
General Practitioners Committee Dr Sean Malone
Chair
Dr Peter Gannon
Vice President
Dr Andrew Bolas
Dr James Turner
President Elect
Dr Peter Gannon
Dr Niall MacDonogh
Metro Branch
Honorary Secretary
Dr Mark Condon
Dr John Nolan
Metro Branch
Dr Sean O’Seachnasai
Metro Branch
Honorary Secretary Designate Honorary Treasurer Honorary Membership Officer
Dr Maher Kemmoona
Eastern Branch
Dr Nuala Carney
Midland
Vacant
Dr Ryan Hennessy
Munster
Vacant
JIDA Rep
Dr Seamus Sharkey
Dr Peter Moran
Kerry
CED Rep
Dr Tom Feeney
Dr Tom Rodgers
North Eastern
GP Group Rep GP Group Rep HSE Dental Surgeons Group Orthodontic Group Rep
Dr James Turner
North Munster
Vacant
Dr John Nolan
Dr Ryan Hennessy
South Eastern
Dr Padraig Halvey
Dr Stephen Moore
North Western
Dr Ronan Perry
Dr Eamon Croke
Co-Opted
Elected Members (2)Dr Gillian Smith and Dr Saoirse O’Toole Metro Branch Reps (2)Dr Adrian Loomes and Dr Dermot
HSE Dental Surgeons Group
Kavanagh Kerry Branch Rep
Dr Rose-Marie Daly
President
Munster Branch Rep
Dr Maire Brennan
Vice President
South Eastern Branch Rep
Dr Eimear Norton
President Elect
Western Branch Rep
Dr Peter Gannon Vacant
Eastern
Vacant
Eastern
Vacant
Kerry
Vacant
North Western
Vacant
Metro
Dr James Flahavan
Midland
Vacant
Midlands
Dr Maeve O’Connor
President
Vacant
North Eastern
Dr Rosarii McCafferty
North Munster
Dr Joe Green
Dr Sean Malone
North Western
Dr Andrew Bolas
Vice President
Dr Andrew Bolas
South Eastern
Vacant
President Elect
Dr Peter Gannon
Western
Dr Mark Condon
Co Opted (2) Drs Grainne Dumbleton and Dr Jane Renehan
Honorary Secretary Honorary Secretary Designate Honorary Treasurer Honorary Membership Officer GP Group Rep HSE Dental Surgeons Group
Dr Maher Kemmoona Dr Nuala Carney Dr Ryan Hennessy Dr James Turner Dr Iseult Bouarroudj
Trustees Dr Martin Holohan, Dr Garrett McGann, Dr Jane Renehan
20
Dr Siobhan Doherty
North Eastern
Executive Committee
Irish Dental Union
Dr Padraig Halvey Dr Frances O’Callaghan
Honorary Secretary
Munster
ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Dr Iseult Bouarroudj
Elected(s)
Dr Vicky Rowan
Drs Evelyn Connolly and Dr Barney Murphy
Group Reports
GP Group The Committee of the GP Group continued to work on behalf of general dentists in private practice throughout 2013.
Dental Treatment Services Scheme The DTSS continues to be a source of frustration for dentists in general practice. The HSE introduced new procedures applicable to new applicants to the scheme, without any consultation or notice to the IDU in July. The fact that many patients cannot access the basic treatment they need, in addition to ever-increasing administrative burdens and costs to GPs, is a source of great frustration. Although there has been an increase in the budget for this scheme, we continue to argue with the HSE that the sums
Dental Complaints Resolution Service
provided fall short of what is required to cater for the oral
The Service had a very successful year in 2013 and appears
health needs of the large number of people with medical
to be dealing mainly with consumer issues, which are not
cards.
within the remit of the Dental Council.
The Dental Complaints Resolution Service Annual Report will be published in 2014.
A report on the work of the service will be produced in early
Publication of payments to dentists participating in
2014 by Mr Michael Kilcoyne.
the DTSS The IDU sent a written complaint to the Data Protection
Dental Council’s draft revised Code of Conduct
Commissioner in respect of the publication of earnings by
Relating to Infection Prevention and Control
dentists under the DTSS.
A subgroup was formed by Committee members to prepare a response and invite contributions and comments from other
Dental Treatment Benefit Scheme
Committee members in the first instance. Subsequently, the
A number of members contacted the IDU as they were
views of members generally and the views of a number of
concerned about the new claim form for the DTBS. The IDU
other committees were sought and considered and an
met with the Department of Social Protection to discuss these
informed response was drafted to be considered and signed
concerns and Department officials agreed to make changes
off by IDU Council in January 2014.
to the form, as requested by the members. There was an increase in the numbers of claims for
Private dental insurance companies
examination under the DTBS in 2013 and we continue to lobby
It was announced towards the end of 2013 that DeCare Dental
for reinstatement of the scheme and a return of entitlements
and VHI Dental were to separate. Both will now offer separate
to our patients.
dental health insurance policies to customers and are offering different payment options to dentists. Whilst increased
Tax status of dental associates and hygienists
advertising promoting the benefits of regular dental
There were no significant developments in 2013 with regard
attendance is welcome, the GP committee is conscious of the
to this matter. The majority of dental associates appear to
difficulties that have arisen for dentists in other countries
have remained as self-employed and a number of practices
where private dental insurance is commonplace.
were audited by Revenue, who subsequently confirmed this status.
Generating greater attendance
It is important that members give feedback to the IDA on their
A number of initiatives were carried out in 2013 to generate
own cases where they have been audited by Revenue.
greater attendance. An email campaign targeted a number of
21
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
organisations whose members were likely to qualify for dental
Public Dental Surgeons
benefit. A number of unions subsequently featured this information in their newsletters to members.
I was extremely honoured to take up the presidency of the
A radio advertising campaign was commissioned and aired in
Public Dental Surgeons Committee in October 2013 at our
early 2014.
Annual Seminar in Mullingar. The Seminar itself spanned three days, and was well attended. It included a trade show
Chief Dental Officer post in the Department of
and a selection of distinguished speakers from Ireland, the
Health
UK, and the United States, who all gave excellent and relevant
The HSE National Oral Health Lead was seconded to the post
presentations to attending delegates. Minister of State for
of Chief Dental Officer in the Department of Health for two
Primary Care, Alex White, and Chief Dental Officer, Dr
days a week.
Dympna Kavanagh, also attended, and addressed the audience, using this opportunity to announce the significant
Meetings
development of a new national Oral Health Policy, which is
The committee met five times in 2013. Full-day meetings
now underway. Dr SeĂĄn Malone, IDA President, also attended,
(rather than evening meetings) were continued in an attempt
and I would like to thank him for his continued support of the
to increase attendance and participation. Whilst this is more
Public Dental Surgeons Group.
demanding of members’ time, it has worked well in 2013.
The AGM of the group took place, at which the following
There is a vacancy on the Committee for the Munster Branch.
motions were passed.
The Committee is eager to see this Branch represented, as there has been no representative on the Committee for a
Motion 1: This Group calls on the Minister of Health to
number of years. If any GP member would like to participate
immediately appoint an independent and full-time Chief
in the Committee, we ask you to please contact IDA House.
Dental Officer in the Department of Health.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the Committee members for their generous contribution of time, knowledge,
Motion 2: This Group calls on the HSE to pursue, without
and ideas throughout the year.
further delay, the completion of the dental reform process.
Dr Peter Gannon
Motion 3: This group calls on the HSE to ensure adequate
Chair, GP Committee
dental staffing in all areas, to allow patients access equitable services, irrespective of geographical location, thereby safeguarding their oral health.
Motion 4: This AGM calls on the Department of Health and the HSE to ensure appropriate and timely provision of dental general anaesthetic services for children and special care patients, in order to avoid unnecessary delays in treating pain, sepsis, and dental trauma.
Motion 5: This group calls on the Department of Health to ensure full access to care under the DTSS for all medical card holders.
Motion 6: This Group calls on the Department of Health to commission and publish, as a matter of priority, an independent evaluation of the impact that the DTSS has had on the oral health of Irish adults.
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
22
Motion 7: This Group applauds the continuation of Mouth
In my acceptance speech, I highlighted how difficult the last
Cancer Awareness Day and again calls on the HSE to fully
year has been for our members, in terms of salary cuts and
support this initiative.
extra working hours, and how morale has plummeted. Yet, in
Further to this, it was agreed to write to the Minister for
spite of this, the changes brought by the Haddington Road
Health to inform him of same.
Agreement were adapted to with a dignified composure of our members. I acknowledged that falling staff members, due to
Meeting with Chief Dental Officer
retirement and the recruitment embargo, have had a hugely
On January 7, 2014, a meeting took place with the Chief
negative effect on the every-day operation of the service, with
Dental Officer, Dr Dympna Kavanagh, in Hawkins House. The
the decreased availability of service to patients and target
delegation comprised of Chief Executive, Fintan Hourihan, IDA
primary school screenings in some areas simply not being
President, Dr Sean Malone, HSE Dental Surgeons Group
met. Where services have been reduced, we have seen an
President, Dr Iseult Bouarroudj, Dr Rose-Marie Daly and Vice-
increase in patients presenting with pain and infection,
President, Dr Peter Gannon. This meeting was very
necessitating
constructive, discussing such topics as: the new Dental Act;
circumstances, acute hospital admission, a reprehensible
state financed dental schemes; and, the establishment of two
consequence of the circumstances which now prevail, and
reference groups, namely the Oral Health Policy Academic
simply unacceptable for a first world country. I stated that our
Group, and a Practitioners Reference Group, to support the
group continues to call for the appropriate provision of
policy development. Dr Kavanagh was made aware of the
funding and time for members to complete their CPD
current difficulties in the provision of dental care to certain
requirements.
groups, such as children. To conclude, it was agreed that
Over the last year, group membership has increased slightly
regular meetings would be useful, and as Chair of the group,
to 146. New members and voices are always welcome and
I feel it is of vital importance to maintain an open line of
encouraged, and membership offers a suite of benefits. At no
communication with our Chief Dental Officer.
time in the recent past has it been as important to have the
complex
treatment,
and,
in
certain
support of the Union. The need for strong and effective
Meeting with HSE
representation prevails. On this basis, I encourage all
On January 15, 2014, a delegation from our committee,
members to take an active part in the Association, to get
comprised of Drs Iseult Bouarroudj, Siobhán Doherty, Frances
involved, to have a say. Feedback from members is the
O’Callaghan, and Jane Renehan, together with Fintan
catalysing ingredient for progress. Where issues need to be
Hourihan, met with Mr Pat Healy, National Director HSE
addressed, we need vocal strength, and a synthesis of ideas.
Social Care, and Brian Murphy at Dr Steeven’s Hospital. This
I invite all members to put themselves forward, to volunteer,
was also a very constructive meeting, within which it was
to strengthen our group for the benefit of us all.
stressed to Mr Healy that the Public Dental Service was a
On behalf of the Public Dental Surgeons Committee, I look
stand-alone specialist service, and should be recognised as
forward to working with our President-Elect, Dr Peter
such in any HSE restructuring. In addition, the difficulties
Gannon, and congratulate Dr Anne Twomey on her
within the service were highlighted, including decimation of
nomination, and wish her well for the coming year.
staffing levels, and difficulties in accessing acute hospital services. All in all, the delegation was very well received, with both Mr Healy and Mr Murphy well briefed from the outset.
Padraig Halvey
At this time of momentous change within the service, further
HSE Dental Surgeons Rep
meetings are soon to take place, including a meeting between the IDA, Corporate Employee Relations Service (CERS), and the HSE, to discuss further dental reform issues. Our committee, and negotiating group, is striving tirelessly to the best benefit of our members, to seek clarity, and positively influence all aspects of evolving reforms.
23
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Trustees’ statement 2013
TRUSTEES
BANKERS
Dr Martin Holohan
Bank of Ireland, 1 Main Street, Dundrum, Dublin 14
Dr Garrett McGann
TSB, Main Street, Dundrum, Dublin 14
Dr Jane Renehan
GENERAL SECRETARY
SOLICITORS
Mr Fintan Hourihan
O’Connor & Co., 8 Clare Street, Dublin 2
GENERAL TREASURER
AUDITORS
Dr Nuala Carney
Grant Thornton Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors 24 - 26 City Quay, Dublin 2
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013
The trustees are responsible for preparing the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and generally accepted accounting practice in Ireland, including accounting standards issued by the Accounting Standards Board and promulgated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland.
The Trustees are required to prepare financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Union at the end of each financial period and of the surplus or deficit for the period. They are responsible for keeping proper accounting records, for safeguarding assets and for preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities.
The Trustees confirm that suitable accounting policies have been consistently applied, that reasonable and prudent judgements and estimates have been used in the preparation of the financial statements and that it is appropriate to assume that the Union will continue in being and to prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis.
Signed on behalf of the Executive Committee on April 10, 2014:
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
24
_____________________________
_____________________________
Seán Malone
Nuala Carney
Auditor’s Report 2013
We have audited the financial statements of the Irish Dental
Basis of audit opinion
Union for the year ended December 31, 2013, which comprise
We conducted our audit in accordance with International
the revenue account, the balance sheet, the cash flow
Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) issued by the Auditing
statement, and the notes 1 to 14.
Practices Board. An audit includes examination, on a test
These financial statements have been prepared under the
basis, of evidence relevant to the amounts and disclosures in
historical cost convention and the accounting policies set out
the financial statements. It also includes an assessment of
therein.
the significant estimates and judgements made by the
This report is made solely to the Union’s members, as a body.
Trustees in the preparation of the financial statements and of
Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state
whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the Union’s
to the Union’s members those matters we are required to
circumstances, consistently applied and adequately disclosed.
state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose.
We planned and performed our audit so as to obtain all the
To the fullest extent permitted by the law, we do not accept or
information and explanations which we considered necessary
assume responsibility to anyone other than the Union and the
in order to provide us with sufficient evidence to give
Union’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report,
reasonable assurance that the financial statements are free
or for the opinions we have formed.
from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or other irregularity or error. In forming our opinion we also
Respective responsibilities of trustees and auditors
evaluated the overall adequacy of the presentation of
As described in the Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities,
information in the financial statements.
the Union’s Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the Union’s financial statements in accordance with
Opinion
applicable law and Irish Accounting Standards.
In our opinion the financial statements give a true and fair
Our responsibility is to audit the financial statements in
generally accepted accounting practice in Ireland, of the state
accordance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements
of the Union’s affairs as at December 31, 2013 and of its
and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland).
surplus for the year then ended.
We report to you our opinion as to whether the financial
We have obtained all the information and explanations we
statements give a true and fair view, in accordance with
consider necessary for the purposes of our audit. In our
generally accepted accounting practice in Ireland. We also
opinion, proper books of account have been kept by the Union.
report to you whether in our opinion proper books of account
The financial statements are in agreement with the books of
have been kept by the Union. In addition, we state whether we
account.
have obtained all the information and explanations necessary for the purposes of our audit and whether the Union’s balance sheet and revenue account are in agreement with the books of account.
TONY O’CARROLL For and on behalf of GRANT THORNTON Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors 24-26 City Quay Dublin 2
April 10, 2014
25
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Financial Report 2013
INCOME AND EXPENDITURE STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013 Note INCOME Member subscriptions
2013 €
2012 €
744,612 ________ 744,612
675,115 ________ 632,590
4,948
5,010
3,633
2,734
LESS: EXPENDITURE Rates and water Light and heat Insurance helpline and audit benefits
16,448
2,035
Printing, stationery and postage
42,545
53,212
299
780
Cleaning Estate service charge
859
601
309,069
230,377
Employer PRSI
32,857
24,417
Staff pension contributions
25,460
17,748
Travel and subsistence
22,957
17,958
Wages and salaries
Telephone
7,627
6,674
Equipment leasing charges
4,501
4,970
Legal and professional fees
24,328
43,076
Research and strategy planning
58,390
-
1,587
17,298
Public relations and advertising
25,043
13,777
VHI
18,061
8,521
Meetings, delegations and courses
6,727
12,027
Subscriptions and affiliation fees
7,898
5,357
11,109
11,278
Sundry expenses
7,540
3,896
Staff training
3,845
-
Staff welfare
396
-
Website development
Repairs and maintenance
Auditors remuneration
8,265
5,500
Presidential expenses
3,945
3,990
Bank charges
2,624
43
30,300
4,800
Bad debts write off
________
1,837 ________
Total expenditure
681,261 ________
497,916 ________
63,351 112 ________
177,199 616 (1,888) ________
63,463 ________ ________
175,927 ________ ________
Members compensation
EXCESS OF INCOME OVER (EXPENDITURE) Bank interest receivable Tax on surplus
4 5
NET SURPLUS Signed on behalf of the Executive Committee on April 10, 2014.
________________________
________________________
Seán Malone
Nuala Carney
The Union had no recognised gains or losses in the year other than those stated in the Revenue Account.
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
26
BALANCE SHEET AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2013 Note
2013 €
2012 €
6
158,413 116,598 _________ 275,011
174,257 28,420 _________
(5,918) (461) (19,773) _________ 248,859 _________ _________
(5,235) (12,046) _________ 185,396 _________ _________
248,859 _________ 248,859 _________ _________
185,396 _________ 185,396 _________ _________
CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Cash at bank and in hand Less: CURRENT LIABILITIES Corporation tax Other creditors Accruals and deferred income EXCESS OF CURRENT ASSETS OVER LIABILITIES
Represented by: ACCUMULATED FUNDS ACCOUNT Surplus for the year
8
202,677
Signed on behalf of the Executive Committee on April 10, 2014.
________________________
________________________
Seán Malone
Nuala Carney
CASH FLOW STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013 Note Net cash inflow / (outflow) from operating activities
9
2013 € 71,539
Returns on investments and servicing of finance interest received
4
112 _________
616 _________
112 683 _________ 72,334
616 (2,828) _________ 168,033
15,844 _________ 15,844 _________
(174,257) _________ (174,257) _________
88,178 _________ _________
(6,224) _________ _________
Net cash inflow from returns on investments and servicing of finance Taxation Cash flow before financing Financing Net (outflow)/inflow from other short-term debtors Net cash (outflow) from financing (Decrease)/increase in cash
10
2012 € 170,245
27
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES a) Valuation policy The accounts are prepared under the historical cost convention. b) Income Subscriptions to the general fund, union fund are accounted on an accruals basis. Subscriptions are stated net of branch levies, branch refunds and capitation grants.
2. OPERATING SURPLUS The operating surplus is stated after charging: 2013 € 8,265 4,501 _________ _________
2012 € 5,500 3,976 _________ _________
309,069 32,857 25,460 _________
230,377 24,417 17,748 _________
367,386 _________ _________
272,542 _________ _________
112 _________ _________
616 _________ _________
_________ _________
1,888 _________ _________
Profit on ordinary activities before taxation
63,463 _________ _________
177,815 _________ _________
Profit on ordinary activities by rate of tax Expenses not deductable for tax purposes Mutual trading status
7,933 (7,933) _________ _________ _________
35,563 1,888 (35,563) _________ 1,888 _________ _________
Trustees remuneration Auditors remuneration Operating lease costs: Plant and equipment
3. PARTICULARS OF EMPLOYEES Wages and salaries Social welfare costs Pension costs
4. INTEREST RECEIVABLE Bank interest receivable
5. TAXATION ON ORDINARY ACTIVITIES (a) Analysis of charge in the period Current tax Irish corporation tax based on the results for the period at 20%
(b) Factors affecting the current tax charge The tax assessed on the profit on ordinary activities for the period is higher than the standard rate of corporation tax in Ireland of 20%.
Total current tax
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
28
6. DEBTORS
Amount due to related party Prepayments and accrued income
2013 € 133,413 25,000 _________
2012 € 149,257 25,000 _________
158,413 _________ _________
174,257 _________ _________
7. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS The Irish Dental Union was under the control of the Trustees throughout the current period. The Irish Dental Union is related to The Irish Dental Association Limited. During the year, The Irish Dental Association collected amounts totalling €744,612 (2012: €675,115) on behalf of the Irish Dental Union. The Irish Dental Association also paid expenses totalling €592,699 (2012: €500,878) on behalf of the Irish Dental Union. At the year end there was an amount of €133,413 due to the Irish Dental Union (2012: €149,257) No other transactions with related parties were undertaken such as are required to be disclosed under Financial Reporting Standard 8.
8. RECONCILIATION OF MOVEMENTS IN SHAREHOLDERS’ FUNDS Profit for the financial year Opening shareholders’ funds
63,463 185,396 _________ 248,859 _________ _________
175,927 9,469 _________ 185,396 _________ _________
9. RECONCILIATION OF OPERATING PROFIT TO NET CASH INFLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Operating profit Increase in debtors (Decrease)/increase in creditors
63,351 8,188 _________
177,199 (6,954) _________
71,539 _________ _________
170,245 _________ _________
28,420 88,178 -
34,644 (6,224) -
_________ 116,598 _________ _________
_________ 28,420 _________ _________
63,463
175,927
185,396 _________ 248,859 _________ _________
9,469 _________ 185,396 _________ _________
10. RECONCILIATION OF NET CASH FLOW TO MOVEMENT IN NET FUNDS Net funds at January 1, 2013 (Decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents Net outflow/(inflow) from other short term creditors Net funds at December 31, 2013
11. STATEMENT OF TOTAL RECOGNISED GAINS AND LOSSES Total recognised (losses)/gains Opening funds Net funds at December 31, 2013
29
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Motions
Motion number 1
Motion number 5
That the audited accounts and report thereon for the year
That consequent upon the acceptance by this general meeting
ended December 31, 2013, be accepted.
of the above motion to dissolve the Midlands and Eastern
Proposed by: Dr Nuala Carney
Branches, that the following rule changes shall be made:
Seconded:
“The deletion of clause 7.1.2 and its replacement by the
Dr Mark Condon
following clause 7.1.2.” “7.1.2 The Branches/Groups shall make their selection of
Motion number 2
President-Elect according to the following sequence: 2014
Munster
to be President
2015
That this AGM appoints Grant Thornton, Chartered
2015
Metropolitan
to be President
2016
Accountants, as auditors to hold office until the conclusion of
2016
Elected
to be President
2017
the next annual general meeting at which accounts are laid.
2017
Western
to be President
2018
Proposed by: Dr Nuala Carney
2018
Metropolitan
to be President
2019
Seconded:
2019
North Munster
to be President
2020
2020
Metropolitan
to be President
2021
2021
Munster
to be President
2022
2022
South East
to be President
2023”
Dr Mark Condon
Motion number 3 That this AGM authorises the Executive Committee to fix the
Such changes to take effect subject to the approval of the Registrar of Friendly Societies.
remuneration of the auditors. Proposed by: Dr Nuala Carney Seconded:
Dr Mark Condon
Motion number 6 This Group calls on the HSE to meaningfully engage with the IDU to ensure the most positive outcome for dental services and for all grades within the profession.
Motion number 4 That the Midlands Branch and the Eastern Branch of the Irish
Proposed by: HSE Dental Surgeons Group
Dental Union shall be dissolved and that three months’ notice
Motion number 7
of such dissolution shall be given to both the Midlands Branch
This Group calls on the HSE to provide written assurances
and the Eastern Branch prior to such dissolution taking
that:
effect.
there will be no compulsory redundancies for dental staff;
This notice shall be served on the Midlands Branch and
there will be no unilateral changes in the conditions of
Eastern Branch as soon as practicable after the date of this
employment for our members;
annual general meeting.
there will be no forced redeployment or transfers outside the
Proposed by: Council
terms of the Croke Park Agreement; and, the HSE is committed to abide by the terms of the Croke Park Agreement, which contain a number of important protections for our members. Proposed by: HSE Dental Surgeons Group
Motion number 8 This group calls on the HSE to ensure adequate dental staffing in all areas, to allow patients access equitable services, irrespective of geographical location, thereby safeguarding their oral health. Proposed by: HSE Dental Surgeons Group
Irish Dental Union ANNUAL REPORT 2013
30
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