Batt O'Keeffe
Question:81 Mr. B. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he will appoint a paediatric cardiologist for Cork University Hospital. [2575/95]
Written Answers. - Paediatric Cardiologist Appointment.
Limerick East): The identification of consultant staffing needs for Cork University Hospital is a matter for the Southern Health Board in the first instance. Proposals for the filling of new and replacement permanent consultant posts are reviewed on a regular basis by my Department. This review is undertaken having regard to service and personnel criteria in the context of the priority afforded to each post by the agency concerned and with particular regard to the availability of financial resources.
Under existing personnel policy, it is, therefore, the responsibility of each health agency to submit prioritised consultant manpower proposals to my Department including details of service requirement and proposed funding arrangements.
Proposals in respect of the post referred to by the Deputy have not been included by the Southern Health Board in its most recent manpower submission to my Department.