asked the Minister for Defence the number of doctors recruited to the Defence Forces since June 1977; the number who left; the number expected to retire on age or other grounds in the next five years; the number short of establishment; and if he is satisfied with the position.
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Doctors.
884.
Nineteen medical officers have been appointed to the Army Medical Corps since June 1977 and a total of 19 have resigned, retired or died in the same period. Six medical officers are due to retire on age grounds in the next five years. The strength of medical officers is 31 against an establishment of 70.
With a view to increasing the number of medical officers in the Medical Corps, my Department advertised last month and will be interviewing candidates shortly for these posts. Civilian doctors are employed, where necessary, to enable the Medical Corps to carry out its responsibilities.