Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Approximately 20% of medical scientist posts are currently unfilled. It appears the pharmaceutical sector is finding no difficulty in attracting people with these qualifications but there is a reluctance to take up positions because of poor pay and a lack of parity and respect. There is also an issue with career progression. Will the Taoiseach ensure there is a formal invitation issued by the HSE and the Department of Health to the MLSA and that there is a realistic basis for a resolution to this?

We all understand there is industrial relations apparatus and it must be used. There must be a basis, nonetheless, and we must have a formal invitation in place.

Will the Taoiseach make sure a formal invitation is issued? Will he make sure there is a basis for a resolution? There is no way the other side will engage if there is not a basis for a resolution.

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