asked the Minister for Health whether any proposals have been made by local health authorities for the introduction of an incremental scale for temporary medical officers in the psychiatric services who are 65 years of age or over; and if any such proposals have been turned down by his Department; and, if so, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Psychiatric Services.
8.
A proposal was submitted for my sanction by one local health authority for the grant of incremental credit, with two years retrospection, to a temporary medical officer in the psychiatric service who is over 65 years of age. My sanction has been conveyed.
9.
asked the Minister for Health whether the appointment of a psychiatrist to the directorship of forensic psychiatry service has yet been completed.
In July, 1969, the Local Appointments Commissioners recommended to the Dublin Health Authority a person for appointment to this post. An offer of appointment to the person concerned was made by the health authority immediately afterwards. As he showed no sign of accepting appointment the health authority fixed 3rd May, 1970, as the latest date on which he should take up duty or the offer would be withdrawn. As he had not taken up duty by that date the Dublin Health Authority have now requested the commissioners to make a fresh recommendation.
10.
asked the Minister for Health when it is proposed to open the psycho-geriatric assessment unit at St. Brendan's Hospital, Dublin.
It is not possible at present to say when this unit will be opened. While the premises envisaged for it are nearing completion, the question of staffing and administration has not been finalised. Discussions on this matter are proceeding and special efforts will be made to bring them to an early and satisfactory conclusion.
Has the Minister any idea of the time—six months, 12 months? It is very urgent.
It is a matter of correspondence and discussion between the Dublin Health Authority and St. Brendan's Hospital. The building is now ready. I shall bring all the pressure I can to bear on the authorities concerned to get a decision on this.
11.
asked the Minister for Health what is the present position concerning the provision of hostel accommodation in the psychiatric services in team three area in the Dublin Health Authority psychiatric services.
The Dublin Health Authority have been endeavouring to acquire suitable premises in the area for use as a hostel. Agreement in principle has been conveyed by me to the acquisition of particular premises subject to certain conditions being complied with.