The fourth recommendation states: "A sufficient number of consultant haematologists should be appointed." Substantial progress has already been made in this regard since Comhairle na nOspidéal reported on the issue of consultant haematology posts in 1999. In 1996, for example, there were just 15 consultant haematologists in the country. In its report Comhairle recommended 39 posts for health boards and a further eight in the Irish Blood Transfusion Service. A total of 27 posts have now been established and a further six which have been approved are in the process of being filled. Three posts not included in the Comhairle report have also been filled in the eastern region.