asked the Minister for Health if a thoracic surgeon has been appointed to cater for the Dublin Corporation T.B. health institutions and, if there is no surgeon so appointed, if he will state what action is being taken in respect of those patients in the corporation institutionswho require major surgical treatment and since when major thoracic operations have been available to the patients of these institutions in a way that would cater for normal needs.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin T.B. Service.
The permanent thoracic surgeon employed by Dublin Corporation who has been on sick leave is expected to resume duty next month.
A temporary whole-time surgeon has been employed by the corporation for several months past. By arrangement between the Dublin Corporation and another health authority this officer provides a thoracic surgery service in the institutions of that health authority in addition to his work in the corporation's institutions.
A second additional temporary thoracic surgeon who is in process of recruitment by the corporation is expected to take up duty in the near future.