Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 3 Oct 2001

Vol. 541 No. 2

Written Answers. - Consultant Appointments.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

609 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received a communication from Comhairle na nOspidéal stating that the major increase in the number of consultants in the public hospital system in recent years has not been shared equally around the country and is contributing to inequality of access to health care. [22111/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

In June 2001, Comhairle na nOspidéal forwarded a submission to the Department of Health and Children on the forthcoming health strategy. In its submission, Comhairle referred to the geographical distribution of the hospital medical workforce and suggested that "appropriate arrangements should be introduced" which will improve equity of access for all areas.

The Government is committed to the provision of a safe, equitable, patient centred service. These issues will be addressed in the health strategy, which will be published shortly. In addition, the national task force on medical manpower, currently in the course of establishment, will carefully examine consultant staffing levels and their geographical distribution.

Question No. 610 answered with Question No. 561.