Media release from health minister David Cunliffe

Minister of Health David Cunliffe has welcomed news that Senior Doctors have ratified a settlement on pay and conditions.

"Today's decision is good news for both patients and senior doctors," Mr Cunliffe said.

"The commission which will be established as part of today's agreement will ensure that senior doctors working in New Zealand have pay and conditions commensurate with those working elsewhere."

Mr Cunliffe acknowledged Senior Doctors and DHBs for taking a constructive approach to achieving a positive outcome, which supports the long-term objective of promoting quality in the health sector, patient safety and strategic workforce planning.

"Today's announcement shows that health workforce negotiations can have positive outcomes for all parties without disrupting patients."