HSE progresses filling eye healthcare posts in Tipperary to tackle waiting list backlog
Independent TD Mattie McGrath gives update on progress the HSE has made in recruiting a consultant ophthalmologist and optometrist in south Tipperary
Progress in filling two vacant public eye healthcare posts in south Clonmel to deal with the waiting list of children seeking eye care appointments has been made in recent weeks, according to an Independent TD.
Deputy Mattie McGrath reports that a consultant ophthalmologist post for south Tipperary that was originally advertised by the HSE as a temporary position is now being offered as a permanent post.
And he has also received confirmation from the HSE that the long-awaited optometrist post for south Tipperary has been approved by its local and regional employment control groups.
“The position is now in the HSE recruitment pipeline and is expected to be advertised in the coming weeks,” Deputy McGrath explained.
In relation to the consultant ophthalmologist post, he said he raised concerns earlier this month when it emerged the job was a temporary position, which risked deterring qualified applicants from applying.
“When it became clear the post was not being offered on a permanent basis, I immediately raised the issue with the HSE and the Minister for Health.
“I am pleased to confirm that the post has now been approved for permanent filling.
“This has already resulted in a substantial number of applications being received in the most recent recruitment campaign,” Deputy McGrath continued.
“The HSE has indicated the recruitment process is progressing with interviews expected shortly and standard procedures such as reference checks and Garda vetting to follow.”
Vital steps forward
The Newcastle TD said the filling of these two post will be “vital steps forward” for eye care services in south Tipperary which have been neglected for over 12 months.
“The filling of both posts will help to clear the ever growing backlog of children requiring eye care in South Tipperary,” he pointed out.
Deputy McGrath vowed to continue to monitor the progress of the filling of both posts to ensure that recruitment is completed without further delay and that children in south Tipperary receive the timely and quality eye care they deserve.