Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

The role of a GP has changed substantially in recent years, with GPs standing back from carrying out certain procedures in their surgery due to a fear of litigation. Who could blame them, the way people think now? The co-operative system has been a welcome development in the lives of GPs — it works well in the Midland Health Board system.

The attending disciplines referred to would be welcome but Senator Henry is right, there is a shortage of general practitioners, mainly as a result of the rise in population, the retirement of general practitioners and the method by which they are replaced, which is slow. We must get this right. Replacements must be vetted and the health board must ensure that the person taking up the position is suitable. We should not sacrifice accuracy for speed.