The slowdown in recruitment is restricting services at Letterkenny University Hospital.
That’s according to Fianna Fáil TD for Donegal, Charlie McConalogue, who confirmed on Monday that a replacement diabetes podiatrist is currently on hold due a recruitment slowdown within the HSE.
“The replacement Diabetes Podiatrist post for the maternity leave cover in Letterkenny University Hospital is one of a number of posts on hold during the current slowdown in recruitment,” McConalogue said.
“I understand this post is currently with HBS recruitment and that Letterkenny University Hospital local management in conjunction with Saolta Management are working to get approval for this post to be released as a matter of urgency.
“The replacement Diabetes Podiatrist post for the maternity leave cover was applied for in December 2018, and the position offered to a candidate on the 21st February 2019. However, they have yet to commence the position,” he added.
“This is a ridiculous situation for a person to have been offered the post without a start date. Podiatry is a vital service within Letterkenny University Hospital.
“Our diabetes patients rely on it, their health is being compromised without this vital service.
“The Minister needs to step in and make sure that this maternity cover post commences immediately.”