To ask the Minister of Health what options he has considered to encourage surgeons and other personnel to work in hospitals outside Greater Belfast, including merit awards, targeted training, and other forms of recognition.

I value the contribution provided by all HSC personnel in all clinical settings to the delivery of care to our population.

My Department is working with the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency and all HSC Trusts right across Northern Ireland to implement practical measures that will enhance the quality of medical training provided.

Recruitment into HSC is a matter for each Trust individually as the employer. Where any part of the workforce is under pressure, each employer may seek the Department’s approval to apply a Recruitment and Retention Payment (RRP). The use of RRPs is, however, limited due to the potential for impacts in neighbouring Trusts.