Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
957. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health the measures that his Department and the HSE are taking to address recruitment and retention in the radiation therapy sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40070/23]
View answerFirstly, I would like to acknowledge the incredibly important role of Radiation Therapists in the provision of cancer services in this country.
An independent review of the Radiation Therapist profession, which was agreed between the HSE, Department of Health and SIPTU, under the auspices of the WRC, has been underway since December 2022. This strategic review has been considering issues such as organisation structure, career development in line with Health and Social Care Professional Frameworks, and strategic workforce planning for Radiation Therapists. It has also been looking at recruitment and retention strategies for Radiation Therapists. All parties expect the recommendations arising from the review to lead to positive changes for the Radiation Therapy profession.
All outcomes of the review will be given due consideration by the Department of Health. Implementation of any recommendations from the review are subject to approval from the Departments of Health and Public Expenditure and Reform in line with public service pay policy. A report of the review containing recommendations is expected to be published in the coming months.
In relation to providing any specific details on recruitment and retention measures for Radiation Therapists, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy.
