Harney’s plan for 1,500 more consultants ‘flawed’

HOSPITAL consultants yesterday accused Health Minister Mary Harney of trying to deflect public attention away from the ills of the health service with her plan to recruit an additional 1,500 consultants.

The Irish Hospital Consultants Association (IHCA) said Ms Harney’s proposal was fundamentally flawed because those appointed to the new posts — restricted to public hospitals — would not have adequate resources to operate effectively.

“The minister should be honest with patients and taxpayers and explain in detail her plans to equip these consultants without the patient clinics, theatres, hospital beds and secretaries necessary to support patient care,” said IHCA assistant general secretary, Donal Duffy. “There are consultants in this country at present without access to these critical facilities”