Vol. 529 No. 4
158 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if a decision has been made on the future of the surgical unit in the county hospital, Bantry, County Cork; and if approval has been given for the appointment of a second consultant surgeon and second consultant anaesthetist. [2964/01]
The provision of surgical services at the hospital is a matter for the Southern Health Board in the first instance and the appointment of additional staff is also a matter for the board. No proposal has been made to my Department for the appointment of a second consultant surgeon or second consultant anaesthetist. I understand, however, that the board is currently preparing submissions in this regard. When such proposals are made, the applications, which are subject to approval by Comhairle na nOspidéal, will be considered in the context of available resources and the priority accorded to it by the board.
