Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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267. To ask the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 604 of 8 May 2024, if he has engaged with the HSE in respect of immediate measures to address the shortage of public health nurses; to outline his immediate and longer-term plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24576/24]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I wish to thank the Deputy for her question. I am aware that the PHN Service Dublin Mid-West is experiencing significant shortages and the HSE has advised that recruitment of PHNs in Dublin Mid-West has been especially challenging. As reported recently, the local service is working to ensure that those with the greatest need in the community are prioritised and that site-specific contingency plans continue to be refined monthly.

I fully recognise the frustration of people in the area impacted by these shortages. Where child developmental checks are concerned and I would encourage any parents who have a specific concern or a query regarding their child, to contact their GP or local health office directly.

I also want to emphasise that ensuring the delivery of the full range of services provided by PHNs, is a priority for me. We are progressing several initiatives at a national level both within my Department and in the HSE to address challenges to the recruitment of healthcare professionals in general, and nurses, specifically.

Though, recognising that these initiatives seek to address the longer-term challenges, I have asked that the HSE find a rapid temporary solution for this particular area. Following this request there has been extensive engagement between officials in my Department and senior management in the HSE to advance proposals.