Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

While we have discussed this matter already, it is urgent that the Defence Forces have the proper medical backup. For example, the dentist who provides a service for military personnel in the Curragh is going to Chad. As such, no dentist will be available to the approximately 1,500 military personnel in the Curragh. I asked whether the Minister could provide an answer as to the cost of outsourcing services to private medical practitioners. The figure of €1.5 million mentioned some years ago has probably increased due to the reduction in the number of doctors available within the Defence Forces.

This matter is about more than the provision of services. It is important that medical personnel have a close knowledge of the Defence Forces so that the former know those with whom they are dealing, understand their complaints and are aware of the complexities. It is a psychological matter as much as a medical one. The importance of having as many Irish doctors as possible lies in psychology, in that they can communicate with military personnel better and have a better understanding of them. In saying this, I do not mean to cast aspersions on non-national personnel. Effective communication is a particularly important consideration when it comes to missions.

If we want to attract young doctors, male and female, into the Defence Forces, we must offer incentives. One such incentive would be the provision of crèche facilities, especially where there is a high concentration of medical personnel, such as in the Curragh. I understand the Minister has established a committee to examine this issue. Has that committee issued its recommendations? Can the Minister indicate whether a crèche facility will be provided in the Curragh?

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