To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when his Department will make a decision regarding the new junior doctors contract to be introduced in August 2016.

I met with the Chair of the BMA (NI) Junior Doctors Committee in December 2015. I have also asked my officials to continue to engage in discussions with local BMA representatives with a view to developing an agreed way forward for Northern Ireland. I trust that we can work on a replacement for a contract which has been recognised as not fit for purpose and find a solution that is tailored to Northern Ireland's needs, is not punitive to local taxpayers and, most importantly, ensures a safe service for patients.