Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 48: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of medical staff within the Defence Forces; the number who have a psychiatric qualification; the number in each category serving in a medical roll here and overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34744/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The number of medical staff within the Defence Forces is thirty-two (32) comprised of twenty-two (22) Medical Officers, one (1) Psychologist, four (4) Dentists, one (1) Periodontist and four (4) Pharmacists. In addition, there are twenty-three (23) members of the Army Nursing Service. The number of medical staff who hold a Psychiatric qualification is one (1).

The number of medical personnel serving in Ireland is twenty nine (29). The number serving or assigned for service overseas is three (3). There are currently two (2) Doctors and one (1) Dentist assigned to Chad.

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 challenges facing the Medical Corps have been recognised for some time and a review of the provision of medical services is ongoing as part of the Modernisation Agenda for the Defence Forces.

Given the ongoing issues and mindful of the need to make progress in this area, earlier this year I engaged consultants to make recommendations on the best means of meeting the medical requirements of the Defence Forces. I expect the consultant's report to be delivered before the end of the year.