Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 5 Mar 1991

Vol. 405 No. 9

Written Answers. - Coeliac Disease Sufferers.

Roger T. Garland

Question:

188 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Health if, in view of the fact that the estimated number of people having coeliac disease in Ireland is 150,000, many of whom are undiagnosed, he will consider a publicity campaign for people suffering from this condition, especially since the major complication is cancer of the colon.

Roger T. Garland

Question:

189 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Health if he will assist with an information campaign to hospital catering departments, of the serious health issue of supplying a gluten free diet for overnight and day cases in hospitals, as reported by the coeliac society of Ireland.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon):

I propose to take Questions 188 and 189 together.

The health promotion unit of my Department, in conjunction with statutory and voluntary organisations, provide information on various health topics to the general public and to specific categories of persons. In this context the unit regularly meets voluntary organisations to discuss their specific information needs. I have arranged that the health promotion unit will contact the Coeliac Society of Ireland to discuss the further information needs of people with coeliac disease.