asked the Minister for Health if he will explain the reason why no nurses have been appointed to the dispensary district of Emo and Ballybrittas and other areas in County Laois; if these appointments are held up awaiting approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Laois Nursing Appointments.
31.
Mr. O'Malley
I issued yesterday a comprehensive circular to health authorities regarding the district nursing service, which includes details of a training scheme for recruits as public health nurses under health authorities.
In March last, in approving of a proposal by Laois County Council for the appointment of a public health nurse for the Mountrath-Castletown-Coolrain area, I asked the health authority to defer, if possible, the making of a permanent appointment until details of the training scheme had been announced. I made it clear, however, to the authority that if they wished, they could make a temporary appointment pending the recruitment of a permanent nurse under the new system of training.
I am informed that the health authority decided to postpone the filling of this and a similar appointment for Emo/Ballybrittas.
As the circular has now been issued, the health authority can further consider these two appointments.