asked the Minister for Health when it is proposed to appoint a dispensary doctor for Ferbane, County Offaly; and if he will have this vacancy filled without delay.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ferbane (Offaly) Dispensary Doctor.
39.
A temporary district medical officer has been serving Ferbane dispensary district since the permanent officer resigned in November, 1965.
In view of the proposed introduction of a general medical service with choice of doctor, I have requested health authorities not to proceed with the filling of vacancies in posts as district medical officer on a permanent basis.
Does the Minister mean that no further permanent officers will be appointed until after November, 1967?
Mr. O'Malley
No, that is not so. In fact, my Department has sanctioned, since this freezing edict, so to speak, on the appointment of district medical officers, the appointment of several permanent officers. The choice of doctor, if this conception is acceptable, cannot spread throughout the whole State. There will be areas in rural Ireland, isolated areas in particular, where the dispensary system will have to continue.
Does the Minister think that there is going to be a choice in Ferbane?
Mr. O'Malley
The Ferbane area covers 63,000 acres and the extent is about 14 miles×8 miles. It covers 2,200 medical card holders at the present time. It is under consideration by my Department but it would appear that a choice of doctor is feasible.
Those statistics are very interesting but would the Minister point out where the second doctor is in Ferbane?
Mr. O'Malley
I told the Deputy that the matter is under consideration by my Department and it would appear to me that a choice of doctor is feasible and that one, in due course, will be appointed.
Would the Minister indicate where there is a second doctor in Ferbane?
Mr. O'Malley
This is one of the changes I proposed in the White Paper, if the Deputy read it.
I wrote it.
Mr. O'Malley
In view of the position occupied by the Deputy at the present time, I will refrain from commenting.