asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the widespread concern in County Clare regarding the provision of an adequate maternity service in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clare Maternity Service.
14.
There are about 1,600 births to County Clare mothers each year. Of these, approximately 800 births take place in Cahercalla Nursing Home and Ennis County Hospital and approximately 800 in Limerick city. This division of births has been a regular pattern for some years past.
I understand that, at the request of the Mid-Western Health Board representatives of Comhairle na nOspidéal will be visiting Ennis later this week to discuss the question of a consultant staffed obstetrical and gynaecological unit at Ennis with members of the board from County Clare, officers of the board, and representatives of Clare Local Health Committee. While discussions had taken place between officers of my Department and officers of the health board on the future hospital services, including maternity services, for the health board area, it will be necessary to await the outcome of the comhairle/health board discussions before any final decision can be taken in relation to maternity services in County Clare.
Is the Minister aware of the concern that has been expressed by members of the health board, the Kilrush, Ennis and Kilkee local councils, voluntary organisations, such as the ICA and the Housewives' Association and will he ensure that these services are provided and that a speedy decision is given on the matter?
I am aware of the concern but I can only repeat what I said in my reply. A meeting is to be held tomorrow between Comhairle na nOspidéal, members of the health board and members of the Clare County Committee. I could not forecast what they might do; I have to await their report. Comhairle na nOspidéal will eventually decide whether a consultant or consultants will be appointed in County Clare.
Will the comhairle or the Minister decide?
The comhairle.
Is the Minister concerned that, if the centre for the people living in the remote area 60 miles west of Ennis is Limerick, this will lengthen their journey and increase the risk to expectant mothers?
I am aware of the concern in this area. Even when there was a consultant there, 800 women went annually to Limerick.
The people adjacent to that city went to Limerick——
I do not know from what distance they came, but 800 went to Cahercalla and 800 to Limerick city. Whether the appointment of a consultant there will change that position, I do not know.
The people in the remote areas west of Ennis towards Loop Head are concerned to preserve and improve the facilities which should be available in Ennis.
They would probably go to Cahercalla.