Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A direct entry competition for the position of military psychiatrist was launched on 26 July 2018 and closed on 30 December 2018. No applications were received for the competition. Further options have been under consideration as to how to proceed. In this regard, I have recently given approval for my Department to conduct a competition for a contracted civilian psychiatrist. However, it should be noted there is a nationwide shortage of psychiatrists, as the Deputy recognised. The proposal I approved before Christmas has gone to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform for final sign-off. As the Deputy stated, the salary offered is only half of what may be on offer in the private sector or the HSE. That is probably the main reason for the lack of applications for the position that was advertised.

I have outlined that we have all the back-up services required for members of the Defence Forces. The PSS in place for serving members of the Defence Forces in Ireland and overseas is excellent and I compliment it on its work.

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