The availability of a lung transplantation service has been identified as a key priority for persons with cystic fibrosis. The Government is committed to supporting the development of such a programme in this country. The Mater Hospital has been designated as the surgical site for this service in conjunction with St. Vincent's University Hospital, which is the designated centre for the treatment of adults with cystic fibrosis.
Considerable preparatory work has already been completed in relation to the programme. The building of a lung transplant facility at the Mater Hospital forms part of a major capital development approved for the hospital. Revenue funding in excess of €3 million has been provided to support the enhancement of lung transplant services for Irish patients, including the appointment of key transplant personnel to this new programme. The additional resource requirements for the programme are being progressed in the context of the 2003 estimates process.