John Cregan
Question:268 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a third geriatrician will be appointed to the Mid-Western Health Board region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3322/04]
View answerWednesday, 4 February 2004
Questions (178)
Written answers
Responsibility for the provision of health services in the Limerick area rests with the board. It is a matter for the board, in consultation with my Department, to determine the priority that should be accorded to service developments, taking into account available funding.
The need for an additional consultant geriatrician post for the Limerick area was identified by the board in 2002. Originally my Department allocated €89,000 for the development of a consultant-led team for Limerick. Unfortunately, the board has been unable to further advance the filling of the post from within its allocation. The appointment must also have regard to the board's employment control ceiling. My Department will continue to liaise with it to fill the post.