Leader of the Independent Team of Ministers and Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rails and Ports, Seán Canney TD, has warmly welcomed the announcement by Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, of a new locum support initiative to assist 239 General Practitioners (GPs) working in rural and remote parts of the country.

The programme, which will commence in Summer 2025, is designed to provide streamlined access to locum cover for GPs currently in receipt of rural practice supports, with a particular focus on over 130 single-handed GPs who face the greatest difficulties in accessing leave cover.

The HSE is leveraging its proven Relationship Manager Model, developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, to drive this initiative. Relationship Managers will reach out to each eligible GP to explain the support available, confirm interest, and assist in sourcing locum cover for up to two weeks during the summer period.

Eligible GPs will liaise with their HSE Relationship Manager and submit a booking request to a dedicated recruitment agency identified by the HSE. During this process, GPs can specify the clinical skills and experience required of the locum, ensuring a suitable match to maintain quality care during their absence. While GPs will continue to cover the cost of the locum’s time, the HSE will fund the sourcing and coordination through this streamlined support model.

Minister Seán Canney said: “This is a hugely important step in supporting rural GPs, many of whom serve as the backbone of healthcare delivery in isolated communities. These doctors provide vital continuity of care, often in very challenging circumstances, and it is essential that they have the opportunity to take planned leave without disruption to patient services.

“As a strong advocate for balanced regional development and accessible public services across all parts of Ireland, I commend Minister Carroll MacNeill and the HSE for recognising this need and acting on it. I know from direct engagement with communities and GPs that the availability of reliable locum cover is a key concern—and this initiative responds in a practical and meaningful way.

“By enabling GPs to step away when needed, while maintaining essential healthcare access for patients, this initiative will enhance the sustainability of rural general practice and strengthen community-based care in the long term.”
The HSE will monitor the programme’s rollout over the summer period, engaging with Relationship Managers, participating GPs, and the recruitment agency to gather feedback. A post-summer report will assess the scheme’s impact and provide insights for future development.

Minister Canney added: “This announcement is a clear example of Government working collaboratively to support rural Ireland—not only in terms of infrastructure and economic development, but in the delivery of essential health and wellbeing services.”