asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that there is a 13 months' delay for persons awaiting eye examinations in County Clare; and if he intends having this situation corrected.
Written Answers. - Clare Eye Examinations.
134.
The Mid-Western Health Board is responsible for provision of ophthalmic services in this area. I understand that the board has experienced difficulty in recruiting a sufficient number of ophthalmologists and that this is giving rise to the waiting period for eye examination. I am informed that the board is making determined efforts to secure the services of additional ophthalmologists. In the meantime, every effort is being made to give priority to patients requiring eye examination where urgent medical or social factors are present.