Doctors call for visa reform so families can join them

A group representing international doctors working in Ireland has called for reform of the visa processing system, to enable family members join them.

The Irish Society of International Doctors (ISID) said hundreds of doctors have been facing lengthy delays in getting visas for their spouse and children to join them, or for their parents to visit for a short period.

Dr Liqa ur Rehman of the ISID told RTÉ News the delays are affecting the mental, social and family lives of international doctors who want to stay working in the Irish health system and who contribute greatly to it.

He said that an ISID survey has found the rejection rate for visas is around 50%.

RTÉ News has asked the Department of Justice for a statement on the issue.

Studies show that the Irish health system is heavily dependent on doctors from outside of the European Union, making up over half of those newly registered in Ireland.