asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement concerning the appointment of a permanent cardiologist to the Cork Health Authority; and why the present post has been filled for almost 12 years on a temporary basis.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork Cardiologist.
9.
It is presumed that the post referred to in the question is that of permanent physician-cardiologist to the Cork Health Authority. This post was created in lieu of a temporary post of cardiologist which was first filled in 1958. When the question of making a permanent appointment was raised it had to be considered in the light of the decrease that had occurred in the amount of specialised cardiac surgery that was being carried out. The alternative of appointing a physician with a specialised interest in cardiology was then considered. A decision on this was delayed by the difficulty of arranging for an appropriate allocation of hospital beds to the new consultant post. This difficulty was eventually overcome by the allocation of beds between St. Stephen's Hospital, Glanmire, and it was decided to create the new office of physician-cardiologist.
A competition for the post was conducted by the Local Appointments Commission. The person recommended by the commissioners decided not to accept the appointment. The Cork Health Authority made a further request to the commissioners for an alternative recommendation. The Southern Health Board, which has replaced the Cork Health Authority, is awaiting the recommendation of the commissioners. Meanwhile the temporary appointment of a cardiologist has been continued.