Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 30 Jan 2002

Vol. 547 No. 1

Written Answers. - Child Care Services.

Joe Higgins

Question:

499 Mr. J. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Health and Children the nature of the staffing problems in area 6 of the Eastern Health Board which have led to delays in children getting their developmental checks; and if measures will be introduced to ensure that these delays are eliminated. [1308/02]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The Eastern Regional Health Authority (ERHA) is responsible for the provision of health services, including child health developmental checks within its functional area. The authority has advised that the delays referred to in community care area 6 are due to the difficulties in filling vacancies for area medical officers.

Community care area 6 has been carrying three vacancies for area medical officers since last year. However, I am pleased to confirm that as a result of a recruitment campaign in November 2001, an area medical officer commenced work on 14 January 2002. The authority has advised that the area health board concerned will continue its efforts to recruit suitable staff to fill the two remaining vacancies so that delays can be kept to a minimum.