3829. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health whether the Department or the HSE will appoint an independent assessor to determine the appropriate staff ceiling for Cork University Hospital, as requested by the CUH Consultant Staff Committee and the hospital chief executive; if not, the reason therefor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [63100/26]

I am aware of the request referred to by the Deputy regarding the appointment of an independent assessor to examine staffing levels at Cork University Hospital.

The determination of workforce requirements and staffing levels within individual public hospitals is an operational matter for the HSE, having regard to service needs, available resources and workforce planning processes.

I am advised that the HSE is engaging with Cork University Hospital and relevant stakeholders in relation to workforce and service requirements at the hospital. At present, I understand that no decision has been made regarding the appointment of an independent assessor.

Any proposal in this regard would be considered by the HSE in the context of its statutory responsibilities for the management and delivery of health services.