Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 20 Oct 1998

Vol. 495 No. 4

Written Answers. - Hospital Appointments.

David Stanton

Question:

258 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children if, further to the Adjournment Debate on 11 February 1998, the extra positions of a senior registrar and a registrar to be created by the Southern Health Board have been filled; the additional appointments, if any, made or are planned to be made to the orthodontic unit in St. Finbarr's Hospital, Cork; the number awaiting assessment and treatment at the unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20532/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

I have had inquiries made of the Southern Health Board. I understand that the extra position of a senior registrar was filled in February 1998 on a half time basis. The position of registrar was advertised by the board but regrettably there were no applications. However, an extra dental surgeon was seconded to the orthodontic unit in February 1998.

The provision of orthodontic services is the statutory responsibility of the Southern Health Board and the waiting lists for assessment and treatment in the unit are maintained by the board. I have asked the board for details of the waiting lists and I will forward them to the Deputy as soon as they become available to me.