Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As I said earlier, the locum will be appointed in July. Alternative arrangements include appointments being offered in Kingsbridge. The NTPF also has a number of schemes for the Saolta group that should also help in providing treatment to people. I do not disagree with Deputy Harkin's fundamental point about the importance of pain management. It has significant implications for patients and those in persistent pain or chronic pain. Over the last decade or so, it has moved on from when it was as an embryonic service. It has improved significantly. It is very unfortunate that two consultants would leave at the one time. Every effort must be made to accelerate the recruitment of permanent replacements for the two consultants who have left. In the meantime, we have the use of the locum system and also the funding through the NTPF.

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