asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Bord na nOspidéal have recommended that there should be three neurosurgeons at the Cork Regional Hospital; that as a result of a resignation last year there is only one neurosurgeon in the hospital; that this person cannot cope with the work involved both within the Southern Health Board area and from outside it; and if he will request the Southern Health Board to advertise for and appoint two neurosurgeons.
Written Answers. - Appointment of Neurosurgeons.
124.
I am not aware of any recommendation by Comhairle na nOspidéal that there should be three neurosurgeons at the Cork Regional Hospital.
The appointment of consultants to permanent posts is subject to approval by Comhairle na n-Ospidéal. The Government has recently decided to reappoint the comhairle and the new comhairle will take up office soon.
The Southern Health Board have twice advertised the locum post of consultant neurosurgeon but unfortunately there were no applicants. I am aware of the importance of providing a comprehensive neurosurgical service in the Southern Health Board area and I would hope that that second neurosurgical post will be advertised as soon as approval has been given by Comhairle na nOspidéal.