HSE DEFENDS STANCE ON REHIRING RETIRED STAFF

Date Published: 31-May-2012

The HSE West has defended the practice of rehiring retired staff, which it says is used only as a last resort.

John Hennessy says the regional health service had lost many staff through an early retirement scheme and rehiring pensioned staff only occured when no other option was available.

His comments come in the wake of criticism by MEP Jim Higgins, on national figures that illustrate the rehiring of 686 retired health professionals by the HSE during 2011.

773 retired professionals were brought back on the HSE books the previous year.

Speaking on Galway Talks Mr Hennessy said that on two occasions since February, the HSE West had rehired retired personnel while recruitment drives were ongoing.

He says the situations arise when experienced staff cover is needed.