asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the urgent need for the appointment of a doctor and a district nurse for the Killenaule area, County Tipperary; and if he will state the position in regard to the making of such appointments.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Killenaule (Tipperary) Medical Appointments.
22.
Mr. O'Malley
With regard to the appointment of a doctor, I presume the Deputy refers to the need for the making of an appointment, in a permanent capacity, of a District Medical Officer for the Killenaule dispensary district. A competition for the filling of the permanent office has been held by the Local Appointments Commission and it is anticipated that a recommendation for an appointment will be made to the local authority in the near future. I should add that since the retirement, about a year ago, of the former holder of the permanent office the district has been continuously served by a doctor appointed in a temporary capacity.
The appointment of a public health nurse for the Killenaule area is a matter for the local health authority in the first instance. I have received no proposal from the authority for the creation of an office of public health nurse for that area. I understand, however, that the position regarding the nursing service in a number of areas in County Tipperary (South Riding), including the Killenaule area, is at present under consideration by the health authority. Any proposals which may be received from the authority for the appointment of additional public health nurses will be dealt with expeditiously by my Department.
May I assure the Minister that nothing less than the appointment of a permanent doctor to Killenaule and a district health nurse will satisfy the people there?
Mr. O'Malley
I shall bear the Deputy's remarks in mind.