asked the Minister for Health if he will explain the long delay in the appointment of a dispensary doctor for Rhode, Offaly; if he is aware that there is an excellent doctor's residence there which is deteriorating through being unoccupied and that this important district has to depend on a temporary dispensary doctor who resides more than six miles away; and, if so, whether he will have the matter inquired into with a view to the appointment of a dispensary doctor for this area at once.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rhode (Offaly) Medical Officership.
The delay in the making of an appointment to the office of medical officer of the Rhode Dispensary District was unavoidable.
The local authority proposed to fill this vacancy under Section 5 of the Local Government (Officers and Employees) Act. I did not approve of this proposal. The Local Appointments Commissioners were requested to make a recommendation.
The commissioners experienced considerable difficulty in assembling a selection board to interview candidates but I am advised that the Local Appointments Commissioners have now made a recommendation to the local authority.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, can the Minister give any information as to when it is likely the appointment will be made?
I understand that the candidate recommended will be unable to take up duty until 1st September.