Bernard Allen
Ceist:370 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to improve the gender balance in consultant appointments. [21550/99]
Written Answers. - Consultant Appointments.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:371 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of female consultants working in public hospitals. [21551/99]
Bernard Allen
Ceist:376 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of consultants working in public hospitals. [21570/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 370, 371 and 376 together.
On 1 January 1999 there were 1,208 permanent consultants employed in public hospitals. Two hundred and twenty five of these posts were occupied by female consultants. The recruitment of consultants is a matter for individual hospitals and the Local Appointments Commission. The criteria for appointment are laid down by Comhairle na nOspidéal. All health service organisations are equal opportunities employers and adhere to best practice in recruitment.
The Forum on Medical Manpower is actively examining how a greater proportion of female graduates can be retained in the system to consultant level.