Limerick East): Public health nurses perform a dual role in the care of people with disabilities living in the community. They provide direct nursing care and advice on maintaining good health. They also supervise and co-ordinate the provision of support services. This role of the public health nurse has recently been reviewed as part of a broader review of the public health nurse service. A report is due shortly which, I understand, will confirm the important role of the public health nurse in supporting people with disabilities in the community. The report of the review group on services for people with physical and sensory disabilities will also identify the important role public health nurses currently play in the early identification of disability.
The number of public health nurses in each health board area is set out below.