Sir, - Turlough O'Sullivan, director-general of IBEC, seems to have joined in the new fad of knocking clerical and administrative staff in the health services (Opinion, November 15th). This is a dangerous game.
Those who criticise clerical and administrative staff should ask themselves if they want doctors, nurses and other health professionals treating patients or spending their time on management, administration and secretarial work.
It is no surprise that the number of clerical and administrative staff has grown, given the increase in health budgets and services in recent years. Much of the increase is a response to demands from doctors, nurses, and other professionals for adequate clerical support.
Department of Health figures show that administrative staff account for around 15 per cent of all health workers. Even this modest figure includes significant numbers of front-line carers including community welfare officers, childcare workers, and accident and emergency staff.
It is easy - and lazy - to characterise these people as a burden on the health service. In fact, most clerical and administrative staff are dealing directly with the public or providing vital support to front-line care staff.
Like other health workers, they are working hard and making an essential contribution to health care. Like other health workers, they deserve respect and recognition. - Yours, etc.,
Kevin Callinan, National Secretary for Health, IMPACT trade union, Dublin 1.