Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 68: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of medical staff within the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9521/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The number of medical staff within the Defence Forces is thirty-three (33) comprised of twenty-four (24) Medical Officers, one (1) Psychologist, four (4) Dentists, one (1) Periodontist and three (3) Pharmacists. In addition, there are twenty-two (22) members of the Army Nursing Service.

The number of medical personnel serving in Ireland is thirty (30). The number serving or assigned for service overseas is three (3) consisting of 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-four (24).

I am committed to providing a sustainable medical service to meet the needs of the Defence Forces both at home and abroad.

The challenges in the medical arena have been recognised for some time and a review of the provision of medical services, in association with the Representative Associations, is ongoing as part of the Modernisation Agenda for the Defence Forces.

In view of the complexity of the challenge facing the Defence Forces in this area, I decided to engage consultants to make recommendations on the best means of meeting the medical requirements of the Defence Forces. Officials in my Department are currently engaged with the Consultants in quality assuring the work done to date to ensure that the report meets the requirements of the contract.

On receipt of the report and following consideration of the recommendations, I intend to publish the report and engage with all of the key stakeholders on the way ahead. Notwithstanding the current situation, I can assure the House that Defence Forces personnel requiring medical treatment are getting the care they need.