Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 May 1991

Vol. 408 No. 1

Written Answers. - Genetic Counselling.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

85 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health whether he is sympathetic to the request of the Cleft Lip and Palate Association to have genetic counselling made available; and, if, in particular, he will make this service available in Cork.

Paul Bradford

Question:

136 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Health if he will respond favourably to a request from the Cork branch of the Cleft Lip and Palate Association of Ireland for the appointment of a genetic counsellor at health board level.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 136 together.

The position at the present time in relation to genetic counselling is that this service is largely provided in paediatric hospitals and paediatric units and in obstetric hospitals and units throughout the country. In addition, genetic screening and testing facilities are available in the major university hospitals. However, in 1988 I established a special committee to examine and recommend how an adequate medical genetics service should be organised. The Cleft Lip and Palate Association will be pleased to learn that this special committee have submitted their report to me, and this is currently being examined in my Department.