asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware of a shortage of nursing staff in certain local authority hospitals; and whether his Department propose to take any special action to improve the staffing position of these hospitals.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shortage of Nursing Staff.
42.
The answer to the first part of the question is "Yes". I have already sanctioned special measures, proposed by the local health authorities concerned, to improve the staffing position in certain hospitals; and, should it be necessary, I am prepared to consider any further proposals for the stimulation of recruitment that may be submitted for my sanction.
Has the Minister considered the stimulation of recruitment that might arise out of an increase in the wage rates of the people involved?
An arbitration award is at present being considered by the INO and the County and City Managers' Association and I cannot take any action until they report to me.