asked the Minister for Health if he has received a report from the Southern Health Board concerning the large number of unfilled dental posts in the Board's area; and the action he proposes to take in the matter.

I have not received a report concerning unfilled dental posts in the Southern Health Board. I understand that out of the forty-one permanent posts in the area, nine are not filled by permanent appointments. Two persons have been recommended by the Local Appointments Commission for appointment and the Commission has a competition under way to recommend persons for the other posts. The health board has made five temporary appointments and has advertised further temporary appointments.