asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that the medical services which are now being provided in the Erris area of County Mayo are completely inadequate; and if he has any plans to improve the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mayo Medical Services.
73.
The making of arrangements for the provision of statutory medical services in any area is the responsibility of the health board concerned. I understand that the Western Health Board are looking at alternative ways of overcoming the long-standing difficulties in recruiting doctors for this area, and the Department would be prepared to consider sympathetically any proposals requiring its approval submitted by the board which would be aimed at improving the service in the area.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that one of the factors here seems to be that doctors are not prepared to stay in the area for any period because it is so backward? Would he consider introducing some means of providing extra salary for doctors who have to live in a backward area because their services are badly needed? Things are really desperate at the moment in that area.
I agree with the Deputy. Indeed, the Minister for Health and I have considered this problem in the particular area the Deputy has in mind. We are hopeful the Western Health Board will be able to do something.