The Irish Medical Organisation is to meet with the EU Commission next month to discuss the lack of prpgress on implementing a 48-hour maximum working week for junior doctors.

Under EU law, this maximum working week was supposed ao have been implemented for non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs) some time ago, yet the average working week of Irish juniors is currently 56 hours, with many working over 70.

The IMO is currently balloting NCHD members on industrial action, up to and including strike action, on the working hours issue. A result from the ballot is expected on September 2.

The EU Commission has confirmed to the IMO that it will investigate the lack of progress on limiting junior doctor hours in Ireland.

The IMO says Ireland and Greece are the only EU countries that have not fully implemented the EU Working Time Directive.

Under the directive, NCHDs should not work in excess of 48 hours for each seven day period.

If the Commission is not satisfied with progress, it may refer the matter to the European Court of Justice, which has the power to impose fines on the State to achieve compliance, the IMO pointed out.