The accuracy of new figures highlighting problems with doctors' professional training levels has come into question.

The head of the Medical Council claims that three out of 10 Irish doctors are failing to fulfil their continued professional development (CPD) hours.

According to the Medical Independent, the requirement involves 50 hours of CPD as well as one clinical audit per year.

It is the Medical Council's legal duty to ensure doctors are completing their hours.

Chairman of the IMO GP committee Padraig McGarry said the true figure could be much lower than estimated.

"People who are abroad are I think included in that number. That could be up to 12% at any stage," he said.

"There is also no concession for people who are on maternity leave and (out through) illness.

"I don’t think 30% of people actively working as GPs are not doing their CPD points."