asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that funds are provided to enable the Western Health Board to fill the post of second consultant haematologist which was approved in April 1980; and if he is aware of the urgent need for a second haematologist to treat the large number of patients with haematological diseases which are life-threatening illnesses.
Written Answers. - Appointment of Consultant Haematologist.
524.
Under revised arrangements which came into operation in 1983 all health boards were asked to provide my Department with details of the financial implications before applying to Comhairle na nOspi-déal for approval of consultant posts.
In November 1983 the Western Health Board submitted details of the financial implications of filling a second haematologist post. Following examination of those details, my Department finds that it is not in a position to provide the additional funding for this post. The Western Health Board can of course, reallocate funds to meet the cost if it considers that the priority attaching to the creation of the post justifies such action.