James Reilly has shrugged off criticism from the National Association of GPs (NAGP), which described him as the "worst health minister in the history of the State".
At its annual general meeting this weekend, the NAGP said Mr Reilly dismantled the fabric of general practice and jeopardised the doctor-patient relationship.
Dr Keith Swanick, a GP from Mayo, said: "The previous minister for health did more damage to the health service than any other minister for health in the history of the State and it's even more embarrassing because he is a GP."
Many of the 150 delegates criticised political decision-makers for implementing policies which they say are designed more to bolster election votes than to create a safe and equitable health service.
NAGP Chairman, Dr Andrew Jordan described current government policies on health as "morally corrupt".
"It is unfair and unjust to take services away from the poorest in society - especially when it is done by the back door," Dr Jordan said.
"Do not let the Irish people down, especially those who are ill and those who are poor. Stand up for them."
Mr Reilly says the GP pay reductions were in line with those across the entire public sector.
He says he is not taking their criticism to heart.
