Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 200: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on the Health Service Executive practice of not routinely replacing a number of health professional grade staff who are on maternity leave or parental leave; if she feels that this practice compromises patient care and leads to added pressure on the health professional on their return to work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29588/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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It is a matter for the Health Service Executive (HSE) to deploy its staff to maximum effect within the approved employment ceiling.

I understand from the HSE that the operational needs of a service are assessed on an ongoing basis by the appropriate line manager. Any absences arising, whether planned or otherwise, are considered within this context and arrangements are put in place where it is considered appropriate. Such decisions are not made in a routine manner but are considered in an informed environment taking all factors into account.

I am assured by the Executive that the requirements of patient care and safety are always placed first in terms of priority when such operational decisions are being made.