Over 800 junior doctors have written to the Minister for Health James Reilly warning that they are prepared to move abroad and leave the Irish healthcare system.

The campaign is organised by the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO).

It says junior doctors may emmigrate because of the policies by the Minister on consultants.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) and consultants have been in talks over new contracts which would change the working hours and practices for junior doctors.

The IMO says new contracts with changes to working hours and practices will effect junior doctors only.

'Not just about money'

It follows a lashing out last week at plans by Minister Reilly for the future of the health service.

Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Mater Hospital in Dublin Michael O'Keeffe said the money is not there for the plans that are proposed.

"This is pie in the sky, this is crazy stuff" he said.

"Every day of the week, it's impossible to get beds in hospital, the capacity has been reduced dramatically".

"We've been through all of that Dutch auction stuff before; you know and I know that free GP service, free over 70s health care, free medical cards for everybody - this is all mad stuff, this is crazy" he added.

It follows the news that the Department of Health is to receive a financial bailout after overspending by at least €400 million this year.

It was revealed earlier this month that it is likely it will receive a financial bailout despite the Taoiseach Enda Kenny being adamant for months that there would be no supplementary budget for Minister Reilly. 

Cutbacks have so far  failed to correct the overspend by the Department.

The Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin confirmed to the Dáil that extra money for health would have to be approved.

Dr. Mark Murphy is from the Non-Consultant Hospital Doctors (NCHD) Committee of the IMO.

He says it is not just about money but also about respect.