John Browne
Question:60 Mr. Browne (Wexford) asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to make funding available for research into a condition known as retinitis pigmentosa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13057/97]
Written Answers. - Health Research Funding.
Limerick East): The Health Research Board is the statutory body with responsibility for health research in Ireland. The board's primary function is to promote, assist, commission or conduct medical, health and health services research. In addition, the board assists and supports other health agencies including health boards and co-operates with other research bodies in promoting or conducting such research in Ireland. The Health Research Board is the primary vehicle for health research funding from my Department.
I have been advised by the board that it is funding a research unit titled unit for retinopathies research and therapy. Funding of this project commenced in September 1996 and will amount to £375,000 over a five year period. This research is based in Trinity College Dublin, Univeristy College Dublin and University College Cork.