Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 10 Mar 1992

Vol. 417 No. 1

Written Answers. - Resignation of Orthodontal Surgeon.

Michael Ferris

Ceist:

215 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the reasons for the resignation of the orthodontal surgeon in the Eastern Health Board area; if he will initiate immediate discussions with the chief executive officer and programme managers to ensure this situation is settled in line with other health boards which have employed orthodontal surgeons; if he will consider using his powers to re-employ this highly qualified person in the interest of patient care; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Connell)

A consultant orthodontist was appointed to the Eastern Health Board in May 1991. I have been informed by the Eastern Health Board that difficulties arose between the consultant and the health board management as to the structure and development of the orthodontic services. Following discussions on these issues between the chief executive officer of the health board and the consultant orthodontist, the chief executive officer set up a project team to assist with the development of an effective orthodontic service and to report to him through the Programme Manager (Hospitals). The consultant orthodontist was appointed a member of this team. Soon after the setting up of the project team, the consultant orthodontist tendered her resignation. Her resignation was accepted by the board. The board are now making arrangements to fill the vacancy on a shared basis with the Dublin Dental Hospital.