§ Mr. GINNELLasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland how long do the Local Government Board for Ireland allow a dispensary medical officer to continue incapable from excessive indulgence in intoxicating drink before taking action; and what precautions, if any, do the Board take for the lives of the poor, who have no choice of medical practitioner, after the Board have learned that the officer is addicted to this vice?
§ Mr. CHERRYThe hon. Member is in error in assuming that action is not taken at once when a complaint is made officially to the Local Government Board that a medical officer of a dispensary district has become incapable of discharging his duties owing to excessive indulgence in intoxicating drink. The medical officer, however, can only be deprived of his post on sufficient grounds, which should be established at a public inquiry where he can be afforded a full opportunity of offering a defence. Allegations of intemperance contained in anonymous letters or made 1025 by individuals who refuse to permit their names to be disclosed, would not be a proper basis for an official investigation against a medical officer. The boards of guardians are charged with the supervision of the medical officers, and are assisted in that duty by the Local Government Board's medical inspectors. In addition, the poor may at all times complain against medical officers either to the guardians or the Local Government Board, and in that way secure redress and efficient medical attendance.