asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm as permanent the appointment of the county physician at Naas hospital and the length of time this post has been filled on a temporary basis.
197.
Written Answers. - Naas Hospital Appointments.
196.
asked the Minister for Health if Comhairle na nOspidéal are making permanent the post of county surgeon and county anaesthetist at Naas Hospital, County Kildare.
With the permission of the Ceann Chomhairle, I propose to take questions Nos. 196 and 197 together.
My predecessor indicated to the House on Wednesday, 24 October 1979 (Official Report Vol. 316, cols. 640-641) that he intended initiating discussions between officers of the Department and of the Eastern Health Board with a view to clarifying the future role of the hospital. These discussions have since taken place and I hope to be in a position soon to determine what the future role of the hospital will be. In the light of this decision arrangements will be made for the making of whatever appointments are considered necessary.