P. J. Sheehan
Question:16 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for Health if her attention has been drawn to a shortage of consultant anaesthetists in many health board areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Consultant Anaesthetists.
As I reported to the House last Tuesday, a total of 19 consultant anaesthetists have already been, or are about to be, appointed in 1991 and I am satisfied that the filling of these posts will considerably reduce the shortages in the problem areas.
A consultant anaesthetist has been appointed to the Department of Health to advise, among other duties, on anaesthetic services.
The statistical information available to my Department would indicate that the position in respect of the filling of anaesthetists posts is much improved. As at 26 November 1991, the consultant anaesthetist establishment for the country was 175, of which only 11 (6.3 per cent) were vacant. Also, of the 11 vacancies, candidates had been recommended for three of the posts but had not yet been confirmed.