asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement in relation to the difficulties facing the Southern Health Board in appointing ear, nose and throat specialists; and the steps he proposes to take to assist the appointment of new ear, nose and throat specialists in view of the large number of people on the waiting lists for such treatment.
Written Answers. - Southern Health Board Ear/Nose/Throat Specialists.
98.
The South Infirmary-Victoria Hospital is the regional centre for ear, nose and throat services in the Southern Health Board area. There are two posts of consultant ENT surgeon at the hospital, one of which is filled on a permanent basis. Several attempts have been made to fill the vacant post but without success. However, a temporary part-time ENT consultant surgeon has been employed at the hospital since November 1988. In addition arrangements were made recently for a Consultant ENT surgeon to provide a number of sessions at Tralee General Hospital.
The hospital advertised through the Local Appointments Commission for a consultant ENT surgeon on Wednesday, 29 November. I hope that this post will be filled early in the New Year.