DOs to be recognised by new model LOCs

A new model Local Optical Committee (LOC) constitution has been approved by the Department of Health and the national representative/negotiating bodies detailing the functions of LOCs as prescribed by law.

The updated constitution will allow LOCs to review their membership as well as encourage the participation of individuals who could not previously be involved.

Under the new legislation, dispensing opticians as contractors will now be legally entitled to be members of LOCs, as will lay contractors.

Sir Anthony Garrett, general secretary of ABDO, commented on the new entitlement: 'A right has been restored to practice-owning DOs, which is a serious move forward and greatly welcomed.'