125 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Health and Children if the current dispute in the teaching profession will lead to a similar situation in the health sector where there are a larger number of administrators controlling the medical staff. [10713/02]

There is no reason the current teaching dispute should lead to a similar situation in the health sector as the conditions are very different in nature. For instance medical consultants under their contract of employment undertake full clinical responsibility for patients in their care without supervision in professional matters by any other person. Employing authorities roles and responsibilities are also set out in each consultant's contract. The role of health care professionals is also set out in the operational policies of hospitals.