Further extension in search for HPSC Director

There was a further extension to the deadline for applicants to the post of Director of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).

The original closing date was 12 September, but this was extended by over two months to 13 November.

This is the fourth attempt at recruiting a Director. As reported in the Medical Independent in September 2017, three previous recruitment drives were unsuccessful.

There has been no full-time Director since Dr Darina O’Flanagan retired from the post in May 2016.

Asked whether this further extension is a sign of difficulty in attracting suitable candidates, a HSE spokesperson said the deadline had been extended “to widen the search and ensure the full reach of the promotional material for this important post”.

“There has been no shortlisting or interviews to-date. We envisage shortlisting to commence shortly … with interviews to be held as soon as possible thereafter.”

In recent years the position has been filled on an interim basis by Dr Kevin Kelleher, HSE Assistant National Director, Strategic Planning and Transformation, Public Health and Child Health. It is currently filled by HSE Director of Public Health Dr John Cuddihy.

The salary for the Director post is €130,364. In addition, the post attracts a clinical director allowance of €46,000.

“We are seeking a candidate to lead a programme of reform of the public health, health protection service in Ireland,” according to the job specification.