Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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87. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if consideration will be given to joint appointments of consultants and specialists within the health service to support the medical corps in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44881/19]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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A comprehensive range of Primary and Secondary medical care is provided to members of the Permanent Defence Forces (PDF).

Specialist services provided in-house include a comprehensive physiotherapy service, psychology services delivered by two full-time psychologists, and dedicated laboratory services based in St. Bricin's military hospital. The Deputy will also be aware that my Department is currently in the process of conducting a competition for the role of a full-time consultant psychiatrist for the Defence Forces. These specialist services are delivered in tandem with a dedicated in-house primary care team of Medical Officers, pharmacists, and Dental Officers.

Where there is no in-house expertise available, personnel requiring specialist care are referred externally, as appropriate . I am satisfied that these measures provide comprehensive supports to individuals in the Defence Forces who may require them, however, I can assure you that all areas of medical service are kept under constant review.