asked the Minister for Health the reason for the delay in appointing a cardiologist to Cork Regional Hospital; and if, in view of the extreme hardship being caused, she will employ someone in a temporary capacity until the permanent appointee takes up his appointment next June.

The Local Appointments Commissioners have recommended a candidate to fill this post and he has indicated to the health board that he will take up duty next September. In the meantime satisfactory arrangements have been made with existing consultants in the area to provide the necessary cardiology services.

In view of the extreme hardship being caused, would the Minister agree to the appointment of a full-time cardiologist until next September?

I think temporary arrangements have been made until next September. I think arrangements have already been made with cardiologists in other hospitals to cover this area. I understand the reason why the permanent cardiologist is not taking up duty until next September is because he is acquiring additional skills in America at the moment.