Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2012
714 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if he intends to augment the drug or other addiction schemes by way of the recruitment of the extra staff now needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19959/12]
View answerAs this is a service related matter it has been referred to the HSE for a direct reply.
715 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if he will indicate the total number of addiction counsellors, pharmacists, doctors or other practitioners currently employed through the health and prison services; the total number of places to be filled or likely to be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19961/12]
View answerThe Government has determined that, in line with its commitment to reduce the size of the public service, health sector employment numbers must be reduced to approximately 102,000 by the end of 2012.
The HSE has some flexibility in relation to filling posts in order to protect frontline services in so far as possible while still achieving the required targets. In addition, the National Service Plan 2012 provides for steps to minimise the effect of staffing reductions on services. These include pursuing to the maximum the flexibility and reform agenda provided for in the Public Service Agreement.
As the numbers employed in the relevant grades is a service matter, the Parliamentary Question has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
