Health Service Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 March 2012

Wednesday, 21 March 2012

Questions (650)

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

662 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the recruitment of podiatry posts at centres (details supplied) in view of the high levels of diabetes related amputations and foot ulcers here; the Health Service Executive’s progress on the development of a national foot care and screening programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15360/12]

Written answers

Minister for Health (Deputy James Reilly)

The HSE has advised that there are currently 5 of the 16 podiatry posts appointed, a further 3 are awaiting start dates, and the remaining 8 are under active recruitment — to support the national multidisciplinary Footcare model.

The National Diabetes Programme has set a target of April 30 to have all podiatrists recruited and appointed and are hopeful of achieving that target.