Vol. 560 No. 1
714 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when an ophthalmologist will be appointed to the health centre in Ballinrobe, County Mayo; the number of applications which were received for this position as advertised last year; if interviews have been held; if not, when interviews will be held; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1785/03]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the two community ophthalmic physician posts requested by the Western Health Board last year. Clearance by my Department for these posts was requested by the Western Health Board on 20 June 2002. The documentation was processed by my Department and forwarded to the Local Appointments Commission and the Western Health Board on 28 June 2002. The Local Appointments Commission advertised these posts along with posts for the Midland Health Board on 19 September 2002. Interviews were held on 22 January 2003. Eight candidates applied but only six candidates presented for interview. The Local Appointments Commission has advised my Department that the candidates and the health board will be notified of the results shortly.
