Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Question 647: To ask the Minister for Health if he will list the number of nurses who retired on or before 29 February 2012, who have been hired back through agencies by the Health Service Executive or other hospitals funded by the State and whether or not these positions should be filled by young qualified nurses who are unemployed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16957/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

The Government's priority is to reform how health services are delivered, in order to ensure a more productive and cost-effective health system. The primary aim of the 29 February 'grace period' retirements was to assist in the reduction of the number of public servants and the cost of the public service payroll in line with Government policy. While a limited number of staff who have retired may need to be rehired on a temporary basis to ensure the continued provision of essential services, these arrangements can only apply in exceptional circumstances and for a limited period.