Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Jun 2002

Vol. 553 No. 5

Written Answers. - Consultant Appointments.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

287 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Health and Children if the post of consultant neurologist, which was sanctioned by him in January 2000, has been filled at University College Hospital, Galway; and if he will make a statement on the reason it takes so long to fill a consultant post at this hospital. [14474/02]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The application for the consultant neurologist, University College Hospital, Galway, was processed by my Department with no undue delay.

The Local Appointments Commission advertised this post on 12 October 2000. After the interview process no candidate could be agreed upon by the interview board and, therefore, the post was re-advertised on 26 April 2001. After the second selection process was completed, the Local Appointments Commission recommended a candidate to the Western Health Board on 22 November 2001. I have now been advised that this post was filled in June 2002. The Deputy will be aware that very often those selected for consultant posts are unable to take up the position immediately due to prior contractual commitments.