Vol. 477 No. 1
108 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Health his views on whether the fact that various posts within areas of certain health boards are lying vacant for over a year and are unable to be filled, is a cause for concern; the plans, if any, he has to deal with this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8574/97]
Limerick East): The management of health services, including the employment of staff, is a matter, in the first instance, for each health agency. Current personnel policy for the health service provides that health agencies which are managing resources within allocation may fill non-consultant replacement posts without recourse to my Department.
Difficulties have been experienced in recruitment to some professional posts where there are not enough suitable candidates available for employment or where successful candidates do not take up offers of employment. The situation is kept under constant review.
