Michael Ring
Question:254 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals, if any, he has to increase the number of consultant posts in public hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18306/00]
Written Answers. - Consultant Appointments.
The medical staffing of public hospitals is being considered by the Medical Manpower Forum at present. The forum is due to finalise its first report shortly. One of the key principles of the forum is to ensure that the highest quality of medical care is provided for those who require the services of hospitals. This will require an increase in the present number of hospital con sultant posts and a number of other linked changes.
Following completion of the forum's first report, it is proposed that the next steps should be an assessment of the effect of the changes recommended in a representative number of hospitals. This assessment will take into account the changes in medical staffing required to give effect to the recommendations of the forum. It is envisaged that the assessment should be completed in six months.