Question from Deputy Michael Murphy - PQ 32072-26

To ask the Minister for Health the steps being taken by the HSE to address the ongoing vacancy of a consultant ophthalmologist in south Tipperary; the number of recruitment campaigns undertaken to fill this post and their outcomes; the reason no candidates have been successfully appointed to date; the current waiting list figures for ophthalmology services in south Tipperary; the interim measures in place to provide care to patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter.