Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
1245. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Health if an alternative fee structure was considered by the Medical Council on the basis of grade or income when formulating their new annual retention fees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33358/26]
View answerThe Medical Council has not increased its fees since 2015. Despite this, the Council has continued to invest in service improvements. In recent times, registration processing times have reduced, and legislative reforms to the complaints process have introduced more timely resolution mechanisms. The Council remains committed to using doctors’ fees responsibly, transparently, and in a manner that ensures regulation is effective, proportionate, and aligned with the public interest.
In late 2024, the Medical Council instigated an assessment of its financial position and long-term financial viability given the challenges of a growing register coupled with increasingly complex complaints and fitness to practise matters.
A number of options on the structure of the retention fee increase were examined. Ultimately, the Medical Council approved a 10% increase in 2026 and an additional 10% increase in 2027, for all doctors renewing their registration. To support newly qualified doctors at the start of their careers, there will be no increase for newly qualified doctors with less than three years on the register in 2026 and 2027. Doctors over 70 years of age will see an increase of €5 in 2026 with no increase in 2027, bringing their annual retention to €75 in 2026 and again in 2027. This reflects the contribution that many retired and skilled doctors make to the continued training and development of medical students and trainees.
These phased fee adjustments are designed to maintain an effective, robust and sustainable regulatory framework while continuing to improve services for both doctors and the public. They will enable the Medical Council to continue to deliver the regulatory framework that underpins public confidence in the medical profession, while reflecting the real cost pressures that have built over a decade.
In addition, there are a number of reductions in annual retention fees in order to support doctors and their families. The Medical Council continues to provide a 50% refund of retention fees for doctors on maternity leave, adoptive leave, surrogacy leave or sick leave. Doctors in Ireland with international protection or refugee status will continue to benefit from a nominal registration fee of €5 for their first year of registration. A tax deduction may be granted in respect of costs incurred on the annual statutory registration fee paid to the Medical Council and is provided for by way of a flat rate expense for employed practitioners. More details are available on the website of the Revenue Commissioners.
