asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the statement made by the Dean of the Faculty of Anaesthetists (details supplied) that the faculty does not recognise some hospitals for the training of anaesthetists; the hospitals in question; if his attention has further been drawn to the statement that the faculty has evidence to support its claim that the role of unsupervised trainee anaesthetists is dangerous and that since his Department was put on notice of this a patient has died; if he will make a statement regarding this death and the further statement of the Dean that unsuitable people are being employed by health boards.
Written Answers. - Training of Anaesthetists.
151.
As indicated in my reply in the Dáil on 9 February 1988 all consultant appointments are in line with the recommendations laid down by Comhairle na nOspidéal. Where it is necessary to arrange for locum cover it is normal procedure for the existing consultant to be involved in the selection of locum candidates.
I invited the Faculty of Anaesthetists to provide my Department with full details of anaesthetists employed in the health service whom the faculty believe are dangerous and a risk to patients and they did not respond.
With regard to the unfortunate death of the patient to whom I understand the Dean of the Faculty of Anaesthetists referred, I understand that the hospital in question has already been served with a notice of intent to pursue a claim through the courts. I therefore do not propose to comment on the matter at this stage. I would however point out that the employment of unsupervised trainee anaesthetists is not an issue in the case.