Dírím an cheist seo, maidir le cúrsaí banaltrachta i gceantar Gaeltachta Mhúscraí, ar an Aire Sláinte. It is almost nine months since the public health nurse retired in Baile Bhuirne and temporary services have since been provided. There is real concern locally that it is taking such a long time to find a replacement and that services are also being withdrawn gradually back into towns such as Macroom. Baile Bhuirne health centre served a very large rural area extending west from Cluain Droichead, Cill na Martra and Inchigeelagh to Béal an Ghaorthaid, Cúil Aodha agus Baile Bhuirne. Having a nurse based locally was a key feature. Will the Minister indicate when an appointment will be made? Will he raise the issue with the HSE to ensure it will be done without further delay and that the appointment will be based locally in Baile Bhuirne health centre?

I thank the Deputy for raising the matter. As he has rightly said, it is a matter for the HSE, but I will certainly take his serious concerns to it and ask it to report back to me and the Deputy directly.