Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue which will become less of an issue in the future. The things we are doing for the over-70s and the under-sixes will provide reassurance for younger doctors and those in middle age who are prepared to come back from abroad. We can put other things in place such as the shared list. We have more women than men who qualify as GPs and the position is difficult because of family commitments and the choices people have to make. The ability to share a list will have a positive impact on our lack of ability to attract GPs.

Because of the circumstances in which the country found itself some of the financial incentives and grants available in remote rural settings were removed. We are looking at them again. I am not saying they will be returned in full or even as they were, but we have to look at how we incentivise people to serve more remote areas. It comes as a surprise to all of us that even with a good general list, even in an urban setting, although not necessarily the capital city, there is a reluctance to take up positions. That is easing and there is an assurance in the system for people coming back. The things we are doing for the over-70s and the under-sixes will attract people, but it is something we cannot take our eyes off. If we are serious about primary care services, we must ensure the gatekeepers within the system are available to deliver the service. It is something about which we are concerned.