Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)

There has been no public eyecare service in south Tipperary for more than 12 months. The former permanent consultant, Dr. Hillery, retired last September. She provided a wonderful service for a long number of years. She gave more than adequate notice. Unfortunately, the HSE has failed to fill the vacancy and provide a vital service. There is now a huge waiting list, running into thousands, with hundreds of children on the list who have never been examined. The HSE advertised a permanent post on a temporary basis. Of course the post was not filled. Bizarrely, the HSE has readvertised the permanent post on a temporary basis. What is going on? Why has permanent post been advertised on a temporary basis on two occasions? When will we see a proper facility in operation again in south Tipperary?

See this speech in context