andMr. Boland asked the Minister for Health why dentists from the WHB area were recently suspended; the number of dentists involved; the action, if any, that has been taken; and if the persons concerned have since resumed their work with the board.

: Two public dental surgeons were suspended for alleged misconduct by the chief executive officer of the Western Health Board with effect from 25 May. An investigation into the matter was undertaken by the chief executive officer and subsequently one of the dental surgeons concerned offered his resignation which was accepted. The other dental surgeon has now had his suspension terminated and has been restored to duty.

: Can the Minister say if the surgeon who has been restored to duty has received any remuneration for the period of suspension?

: That is a separate question.

: I have not got that information.

: Can the Minister say if the policy of the Western Health Board in sending inspectors to spy upon the activities of their dentists is widespread or if it meets with the approval of his Department?

: That, too, is a separate question.

: It relates to the entire area of the jurisdiction of the board.

: I would not approve of spying in any form in public administration.

: I thought the Minister was employing extra inspectors in the Department of Social Welfare.

: I do not think the Deputy should refer to conscientious inspectors in the Department as spies. They can carry out their duties without spying.

: I just wondered if the activities of the Western Health Board were the first shots in the Green Paper.