Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 22 Nov 2001

Vol. 544 No. 5

Written Answers. - Consultant Appointments.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

140 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a temporary consultant radiologist on a 12 month contract is being sought for Bantry General Hospital rather than a consultant employed on a permanent basis. [29444/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The provision of services, including the appointment of consultant staff at Bantry General Hospital, is a matter for the Southern Health Board, in the first instance. My Department has received a request from the Southern Health Board for the appointment of a permanent consultant radiologist at Bantry General Hospital.

I understand that, at the request of the Southern Health Board, Comhairle na nOspidéal has established a sub-committee to discuss with the board the question of future consultant staffing at the hospital. A comprehensive submission has been made by the Southern Health Board to the council sub-committee and it is presently considering the issues raised.

I will consider any proposal for additional consultant appointments arising from this review in the context of available resources and the priority accorded to it by the board with a view to ensuring that services to patients at Bantry General Hospital are in line with principles of best practice.