456. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Health if she is aware that employment offers made to approximately 20 newly qualified nurses, many of whom completed their nursing degrees in Castlebar and were placed highly on recruitment panels, for positions at Mayo University Hospital have been withdrawn; the reason for the withdrawal of these offers; whether the withdrawal is due to funding constraints and a requirement for additional Department of Health approval before the posts can be filled; the steps being taken to secure the necessary approval and funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [75113/26]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.