James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The HSE is committed to providing high quality, internationally recognised education and training in order to attract and retain Irish–trained doctors. It must be recognised that Irish-trained doctors choose to go abroad for a variety of reasons, including further training. Many return having gained further skills and expertise.

The number of Consultant posts in the public health service has increased by 31% since 2005, from 1,947 in 2005 to 2,580 in September 2012, reflecting the policy of moving to a consultant provided-service.

The NCHD workforce currently stands at 4,889 WTE – its highest number in some years. This reflects intensive efforts by the HSE in recent years to maximise recruitment and retention and measures to make posts more attractive for candidates. Since 11th July 2012, 81% of NCHD posts are part of structured training schemes run by the postgraduate training bodies and funded by the HSE. Nineteen percent are service posts wherein doctors are required to participate in professional development programmes run by the postgraduate training bodies and funded by the HSE.

Recent developments include a 30% increase in GP training places available, from 120 to 157 per year; the introduction of 40 additional intern posts in specialty areas including anaestheisa, general practice, emergency medicine and paediatrics; the development and implementation of a three-year Basic Specialist Training programme in emergency medicine, with 78 places available on the programme, and expansion in the number of Higher Specialist Training places in radiation, oncology and anaesthesia and intensive care medicine.