James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 143: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of civilian doctors, dentists, pharmacists and physiotherapists providing services to the Defence Forces, for the year ending 31 December 2007; the amount paid to them collectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6351/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The numbers of civilian doctors, dentists, pharmacists and physiotherapists who provided services to the Defence Forces, in the year ending 31 December, 2007 are listed as follows:

The key issue in the provision of medical services to the Defence Forces at this time is the acknowledged shortage of Medical Officers (Doctors) in the Medical Corps. The establishment for doctors is forty seven (47). The current strength of Medical Officers serving in the Defence Forces is twenty two (22).

The difficulties with the recruitment of Medical Officers have endured for some time despite the concerted efforts of my Department and the Defence Forces. The numbers attracted to work in the Defence Forces have served only to address natural wastage. The pay and allowances of doctors and dentists were recently increased substantially in consultation with the Minister for Finance. In addition, the Defence Forces have recently undertaken an intensive recruitment campaign. The results of both of these initiatives have been disappointing.

The services of civilian medical Practitioners are used to provide back-up to the Medical Corps in ensuring that the primary health care requirements are met. In addition to providing primary care, the Medical Corps must also deliver a range of services to the Defence Forces including occupational medical services. In view of the complexity of the challenge and the need for concrete steps, I have decided to engage consultants to make recommendations on the best means meeting the medical requirements of the Defence Forces. I will shortly issue documents to invite tenders for this consultancy. The consultancy will deal with all relevant issues affecting the sustainable provision of the relevant medical expertise and services to the Defence Forces.