A union representing GPs has written to over 1,000 doctors, asking them to boycott a new contract to provide free GP care to children under six.

The National Association of General Practitioners (NAGP) is describing the scheme as misguided and unworkable.

The group has described the use of resources to fund a scheme for those who do not have a medical or financial need as "morally and ethically abhorrent."

It adds that the resources given to general practice have been reduced by 40% since 2011.

An NAGP council member told the Sunday Business Post that they were unanimous in this course of action, describing the proposal as "an electioneering stunt."

Last week, the health minister said he expected the already delayed scheme to be ready for signing this summer.

The government has set aside €35m to fund the initiative, which it hopes will be up and running by the second quarter of the year.