Written answers

Thursday, 4 May 2023

Department of Health

Health Services Staff

Photo of Colm BurkeColm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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266. To ask the Minister for Health if he will carry-out an independent review of radiation therapy to deal with recruitment and retention in the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20990/23]

Photo of Colm BurkeColm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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267. To ask the Minister for Health the measures that his Department and the HSE are taking to address recruitment and retention in the radiation therapy sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20991/23]

Photo of Colm BurkeColm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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268. To ask the Minister for Health if his Department will develop a long-term strategy which will assist in the radiation therapy sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20992/23]

Photo of Stephen DonnellyStephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 266 to 268, inclusive, together.

Firstly, I would like to acknowledge the important work carried out by Radiation Therapists and the incredibly valuable role they play in the provision of cancer services across the country.

An independent Radiation Therapist review was agreed between the HSE, Department of Health and SIPTU, under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission. This strategic review of Radiation Therapy will support the objectives of the National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 and help address the increasing and more complex demand for radiation oncology. Cancer cases are increasing in line with our ageing and growing population, and the NCCP estimates that up to 60% of patients will require radiation oncology for primary treatment and palliative care in coming years.

Radiation Therapists are highly skilled professionals regulated by CORU. The Review will align with the National Cancer Strategy, taking account of the increasing demand for radiation oncology, the advances in technology, increased specialisation and more targeted treatment. The review will consider issues such as organisation structure, career development in line with Health and Social Care Professional Frameworks, strategic workforce planning and recruitment and retention strategies.

The review process commenced in December 2022 and is currently underway. All outcomes of the review will be given due consideration by the Department of Health. Implementation of any recommendations from the review are subject to approval from the Departments of Health and Public Expenditure and Reform in line with public service pay policy.

It is important to note that the HSE is focused on making all posts, including Radiation Therapist posts, as attractive as possible. In the past number of years it has been developing its ability to attract and retain essential talent to meet the needs of our health service now and in the future.

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