Tom Kitt (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

Much of this issue will hinge on the work of the consultants. There are issues to be addressed. At the end of the summer the consultants will be appointed and later in the year we will have the report. The Deputy is correct in saying that full information concerning the patients charter should become available. I have asked for a copy of the charter. The Deputy asked that the charter be made readily available; that is an obvious point that must be dealt with and I will certainly pursue it.

Difficulties in regard to the recruitment of medical officers have endured for some time despite the concerted efforts of my Department and the Defence Forces. The numbers attracted to work in the Defence Forces have served only to address natural wastage. The pay and allowances of doctors and dentists were recently increased substantially in consultation with the Minister for Finance. In addition the Defence Forces have recently undertaken an intensive recruitment campaign, the result of both these initiatives has been disappointing. It is important to get this right. The consultants will be asked to review the career prospects being offered to young doctors, opportunities for career development and membership of specialist registers. They will also examine the range of services required by the Defence Forces at home and overseas and for options on sustainable future positions. In summary, I will certainly follow up on the request in regard to the patients' charter and keep the Deputies informed on the progress of the consultants' work. It is important to get on with this work and to get it right.

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