asked the Minister for Health (a) the number of posts as dispensary medical officers which have become vacant in County Limerick over the past three years, (b) the number of these posts which have been filled by permanently appointed medical officers, (c) the numbers that have been filled by temporarily appointed officers and (d) the grounds on which it was decided to make permanent appointments to some and temporary appointments to others.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Limerick Medical Officers.
65.
The numbers are: (a) 9; (b) 3; and (c) 6.
The temporary appointments have been continued because of the decision made in 1965 to impose a "standstill" on the filling of vacant posts in view of the intention to introduce a revised general medical service with choice of doctor. A concession was made to allow serving permanent district medical officers to transfer from their existing posts to some of the vacancies after a special competition. The three permanent appointments made in County Limerick were made from this competition.
66.
asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that Limerick Health Authority, despite continuous advertising, have been unable to obtain the services of a medical officer for Caherconlish dispensary district; and, if so, whether he proposes to make any special arrangements to have the vacant post filled.
I presume that the question refers to the appointment of a resident district medical officer. I understand that the health authority have been unsuccessful in appointing a doctor on a temporary basis who would be prepared to reside within the dispensary district. A service for eligible persons is, however, being provided by a doctor from an adjoining district. The health authority is about to apply to the Local Appointments Commission to recommend a person for permanent appointment to the Caherconlish post.