Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 182: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the number of general practitioners in practice here; the estimate of the number required to meet the primary care needs of the growing population here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28863/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The number of General Practitioners in active practice is approximately 2,500. A joint Department of Health and Children and HSE working group on workforce planning was established in June 2006. It also includes representatives of the Departments of Finance and Education and Science, and the Higher Education Authority. Research is being undertaken by FÁS on behalf of the joint working group. This research will analyse the labour market for 11 health care grades and professions, including GPs, and will help determine future GP training needs. FÁS is expected to complete its work by the end of 2008 when it will report its findings to the joint working group.