asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware that a certain number of psychiatric nurses have been employed in a temporary capacity only in St. Finan's Hospital, Killarney, for a considerable period; and that some nurses have been employed continuously for up to seven years in this capacity; when it is proposed to appoint them permanently; and whether these nurses could now be regarded as permanent officers of the county council having regard to the High Court decision in a recent case (details supplied).
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - St. Finan's Hospital, Killarney.
68.
I am aware that a small number of staff nurses employed in this hospital hold temporary appointments only. I regret that this has occurred but it has been caused by delay in the settlement of a general promotion issue which has been the subject of negotiation for a considerable time between representatives of psychiatric nurses and of the employing authorities. I hope that both parties will soon reach agreement which should have the effect of rendering permanent temporary appointments at present held in a number of mental hospitals. The question of whether the nurses employed in St. Finan's Hospital could be regarded as permanent in the light of the High Court decision referred to would be a matter for consideration in the first instance by their employing authority.