asked the Minister for Defence the present strength of medical, dental and nursing services in the Defence Forces; and if he is satisfied that the recruitment position and service conditions are satisfactory.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Army Medical Services.
160.
There are at present 51 medical officers and eight dental officers in the Defence Forces. There are 77 members in the Army nursing service.
Difficulty has been experienced in filling vacancies for medical and dental officers in the Army Medical Corps and also in filling vacancies in the Army Nursing Service. The conditions of service of personnel of the Army Medical Corps and of members of the Army Nursing Service are regarded as generally satisfactory. The question of the pay of medical officers of the Army Medical Corps is currently under review.
What steps are being taken to overcome the difficulties of recruiting medical and dental personnel?
I am hopeful that the outcome of the review of pay will have that effect.
Can the Minister say that there will be a substantial increase in pay available to Army doctors and dentists?
I would not wish to anticipate the decision.
Would the Minister not agree that there is no other way of getting doctors and dentists?
It is a good way of getting personnel of all kinds.
In view of the expansion of the Army would the Minister consider reopening the military hospital at Custume Barracks, Athlone, to cater for the Western Command?
That is a separate question.
161.
asked the Minister for Defence what liaison mechanism exists between the medical service of the Defence Forces and post-graduate civilian medical educational faculties; and to what degree secondment and post-graduate education is made available to Defence medical personnel.
There is no formal liaison between the Army Medical Corps and post-graduate civilian medical educational authorities. Officers of the corps are, from time to time, assigned to undergo post-graduate medical courses and to attend symposia and conferences held by medical bodies and societies in this country and abroad. A number of officers of the corps have been granted study leave with pay and allowances with a view to their obtaining post-graduate degrees or diplomas.