Limerick East): Even though the budget to the Mater Hospital, at approximately £57 million, is significant, it is still necessary to agree priorities and allocate resources accordingly. Earlier this year my Department and the Mater Hospital agreed a budgetary strategy and level of activity for 1997. I provided sufficient funding to enable the Mater Hospital to provide the agreed quantum of work and the hospital has adhered to this plan.
Angioplasty and stenting are the subject of further ongoing discussions between my Department and the hospital. However, the hospital has received significant additional funding of approximately £1.4 million over the last two years for cardiology services, including angiogplasty and stenting procedures.
I understand from the Mater Hospital that the person referred to by the Deputy is scheduled for an angiogram on 2 May 1997.