asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of a serious shortage of dental surgeons in County Laois; and what plans his Department have to rectify this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Laois Dental Surgeons.
21.
The Midland Health Board are responsible for the provision of dental services in Laois and plans to improve such services are a matter in the first instance for the board. My sanction is normally forthcoming to any reasonable proposals for improvements.
Would the Minister's Department not be concerned that there is a shortage in that area?
The Local Appointments Commission have recommended a candidate as a result of the last competition for one of the vacant posts of wholetime dental officer and the commission advertised recently two vacancies for wholetime dental officers under the Midland Health Board. The closing date is 21st of June, 1972. Therefore, progress is being made.