Duncan Smith
Ceist:719. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Health his plans to address the shortage of consultants in the health service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7807/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 15 February 2022
Ceisteanna (719)
Freagraí scríofa
Given its statutory functions in relation to medical training and approval of consultant posts I have asked the HSE to reply to the Deputy concerning these issues.
It is recognised that there are particular challenges in filling posts in certain specialties and in certain locations. The number of training places have been increased to support further growth and to address challenges in particular specialties.
The Government is committed to continuing to grow consultant numbers in accordance with established health policy. Over the past year (to 31 December 2021) 150 additional consultant posts have been filled. In that time the number of consultant (whole time equivalents) has increased from 3,458 to 3,608. Over the past 5 years numbers employed have increased by 750.