Seán Kenny (Dublin North East, Labour)
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289. To ask the Minister for Defence the number of vacancies in the Defence Forces medical corps; the length of time each post has been vacant; the steps being taken to fill these posts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41433/15]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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There is a requirement for approximately 28 doctors within the Defence Forces Medical Corps. There are currently 19 doctors serving in the Permanent Defence Force. Vacancies remain due to a limited response to recent competitions for the appointment of doctors to the Medical Corps. Information with regard to the length of time that each post has been vacant is not readily available but I will seek to have this information compiled and forwarded to you. Where vacancies exist, general practitioner medical services are provided by civilian doctors on a contract for services basis. A total of 37 civilian medical practices provided these services, as required, in the 12 months to October 2015. In addition, a total of 6 medical consultants were engaged, as required, to provide specialist services for military personnel on a contract for services basis.

Having regard to the recent vacancies, it has been necessary to identify alternative options for the provision of medical services to the Defence Forces. In this connection, a joint civilian/military Standing Committee has been set up with a view to advancing the development of a sustainable integrated medical service and to address appropriate means of delivery of key medical capabilities for the Defence Forces. An integrated model for the provision of the required medical services, involving both the Medical Corps and outsourced service provision is currently being progressed.

I am assured that Defence Forces personnel continue to receive the medical treatment required. I am committed to providing a sustainable medical service to meet the needs of the Defence Forces both at home and abroad.