DOs in revolt over rise in retention charges

Mass failure by dispensing opticians to renew their General Optical Council (GOC) registrations is a very real possibility according to a number of the dispensing profession after a 28 per cent increase in their retention fees from £219 to £280.

Barry Duncan, president of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, said: 'Given that the regulated functions of DOs are inadequately policed by the GOC, members will undoubtedly be considering whether it is worth maintaining their registration.'

In an open letter to the GOC sent to Optician, Essex-based DO Roger Davies stated that he would not be renewing his registration next year, stating he felt the GOC was not 'fit to practise anymore'.