Question from Deputy William Aird - PQ 4524-26

To ask the Minister for Health the actions being taken to reduce the current reliance on locum consultants, given that 16.5% of consultant posts are filled on a locum basis; the reason for delays in advertising and filling permanent posts, including where advance notice of retirements is available; her assessment of the impact of high locum use on continuity of care, service development, and smaller hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter.