asked the Minister for Health whether any firm decision has been taken in relation to midwives in rural areas and, if so, what decision.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rural Midwives.
I take it that this question refers to the future position of permanent dispensary midwives employed by local authorities, part-time, on a salary basis.
It was found on investigation some time ago that in many areas the number of cases attended by the dispensary midwife on behalf of the local authority was so small as to render her employment uneconomic. Because of this and of the new situation brought about by the extension of free midwifery service to the middle income group and the giving of a choice of midwife to all entitled to the service, local authorities were asked in June, 1956, to review the position of the dispensary midwives in their areas. The local authorities were recommended to consider the retirement of dispensary midwives who are called on for fewer than 25 cases in the year. It was, however, recognised that the strict application of this criterion might have an adverse effect on the availability of midwifery services in isolated areas and, in addition, that undue hardship might be caused in individual cases. To meet this, it was suggested that in appropriate circumstances the midwives affected might be given alternative or additional duties which would make it possible to justify their retention. In some cases, also, it might be possible to appoint suitably qualified midwives as district nurses.
The review of the work of the permanent dispensary midwives is still proceeding and final decisions will not be taken until the number of cases attended by the midwives in the year ending this month has been ascertained. Local authorities are approaching the problem in a sympathetic manner and, where appropriate, will endeavour to assign the midwife alternative or extra duties which would justify her retention.
I should, of course, add that any permanent midwife who is retired will be dealt with for superannuation purposes as provided in the Local Government Superannuation Code. She would also be entitled to earn fees for attending Health Act cases under agreement with the local authority and to carry on private practice.