James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister's acknowledgement of doctors working in general practice who have not completed training but are quite experienced. It would be laughable for them to have to undergo full training. We must, however, be careful about maintaining the quality of general practice. I also welcome that those doctor-only visit card doctors will be now able to take on all GMS patients. When was the rule amended?

The Minister must acknowledge there is an increased need for training. While the number of trainee GPs has increased to 120 since 2005, with changing demographics and working practices the whole-time equivalents of those currently qualifying will actually turn out lower. While the Irish College of General Practitioners sought 150 graduates a year, up to 200 are needed. What plans has the Minister got to address this matter? The HSE has also been suppressing this by allowing doctors to amalgamate lists when the doctors' organisations opposed it. I certainly oppose it, wanting more, not fewer, doctors in the community.

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