Portadown foot specialist Ian Willis also saw private patients during his lunch breaks, in contravention of Trust rules.

Mr Willis was referred to the Health Professions Council after an investigation into his professional conduct by the local Health Trust.
His hearing took place in Belfast on Friday and was overseen by the conduct and competence committee of the HPC.

In its findings, the panel said, "The oral and written evidence establish that between April 19, 2006 and May 26, 2006, the registrant, whilst on sick leave from Craigavon and Banbridge Community HSS Trust, carried out private podiatry work and did so, contrary to the Trust's Sickness and Absenteeism Policy and Procedure.

"The oral and written evidence also establish that during the course of his employment with the Trust, the registrant saw private patients during his lunch break and in so doing, did not comply with the Trust policy regarding private practice.

"He also disobeyed direct instructions not to undertake private work during his lunch break. "

The allegations came to light on May 3, 2006, after which two appointments were arranged – one of which was cancelled – before a Trust investigation was instigated.

When he was interviewed, Mr Willis freely admitted treating a number of private patients, mainly in his Portadown practice, and once, in his Tandragee practice while he was on sick leave.

The findings say he accepted that he had breached the policy and "enquired whether it would be possible to pay back the sick pay he had received".

Later, he also accepted "he had read all the relevant documentation relating to carrying out work on a private capacity".

Announcing its decision, the panel told Willis, "You must keep high standards of personal conduct, you must carry out your duties in a professional and ethical way and you must behave with integrity and honesty."

A spokesperson for Craigavon and Banbridge Community HSS Trust confirmed this week that Mr Willis is no longer an employee of theirs and it is not Trust policy to comment on members of staff, past or present.