Vol. 536 No. 2
264 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on the situation where no hospital residence meets guidelines established 15 years ago relating to proper accommodation, hygiene, security and comfort for junior doctors. [13526/01]
As part of the concluded agreement with non-consultant hospital doctors, it was agreed that, where appropriate, a programme of refurbishment of residences will commence. A joint group comprising of representatives of the Health Service Employers Agency and the Irish Medical Organisation was established to identify and agree on areas for refurbishment on a priority basis.
The Health Service Employers Agency has undertaken a national audit of non-consultant hospital doctor accommodation. This survey found that overall the standard of accommodation is reasonable, with some hospitals providing a very good standard of on-call accommodation and some areas identified as being in need of attention. An Irish Medical Organisation questionnaire elicited approximately 23 responses and identified some hospitals where it was claimed that the level of accommodation was not of an acceptable standard.
It has been agreed to work through difficulties with the intention of upgrading or refurbishing on-call residences, where required. Health management is carrying out a review of those areas identified as being in need of most attention.
