asked the Minister for Health if Comhairle na nOspidéal has acted on the Eastern Health Board recommendations to appoint two permanent county surgeons to Naas Hospital, County Kildare.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Naas (Kildare) Hospital Appointments.
15.
Comhairle na nOspideal has considered an application by the Eastern Health Board for the appointment of a permanent surgeon to the Naas County Hospital. An Comhairle has not reached a decision on the application pending clarification of the future role of the hospital.
The Eastern Health Board at their meeting on 4 October 1979 resolved that Naas County Hospital should continue in its present role as an acute general hospital. I am initiating immediate discussions between officers of my Department and of the health board to discuss the position regarding the hospital in the light of this resolution. Comhairle na nOspidéal will be informed as soon as possible of the decision reached on the matter.
Is the Minister aware that there has been a temporary surgeon in this hospital for a long time? One resigned recently and there is a temporary surgeon now. I understand this temporary surgeon has been offered a permanent position and if he goes there may be difficulty in getting even a temporary surgeon. Does the Minister realise that this temporary surgeon has 70 people at clinics three times a week? It must be obvious to the Minister and to the Comhairle that it is necessary to appoint two surgeons. If one were appointed it might solve the immediate problem. Would the Minister ensure that immediate steps are taken to fill at least one permanent post?
I have indicated that the matter is at present before Comhairle na nOspidéal.
Would the Minister make a statement to counteract adverse propaganda being disseminated in the Naas area by people who purport to know all the answers. Would he now give a guarantee that the necessary permanent appointment will be made in Naas hospital?
The making of appointments, as the Deputy knows, is a matter for Comhairle na nOspidéal. Certainly, it is my intention to ensure that whatever appointments are necessary to cater for the needs of the people in the area will be made.