asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement on the provision of a dispensary doctor service in Kereen and Cappoquin, County Waterford.

282.

(Waterford) asked the Minister for Health the provision his Department is making to ensure the continuation of a local health dispensary and doctor service at Kereen, Aglish, Cappoquin, County Waterford.

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 281 and 282 together.

Since the introduction of the choice of doctor scheme dispensary doctors are no longer being appointed.

Medical card holders in the Cappoquin area are served by two medical practitioners, one of whom is acting as a locum following the death of the former holder of the post. The filling of this vacancy is being considered by the health board in consultation with the medical organisations.