Question:
37 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is the intention and policy of the Government to establish an ombudsman on issues relating to health; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14009/98]
Written Answers. - Health Ombudsman.
The Ombudsman is already empowered, under the Ombudsman Act, 1980 and related statutory instruments, to investigate complaints against my Department and against health boards, including health board hospitals, except where the action complained of relates to matters of clinical judgment. I understand that my colleague, the Minister for Finance, is currently preparing draft legislation which will extend this remit. The Government's Programme, An Action Programme for the Millennium, contains a commitment to expand the remit of the Ombudsman to include medical matters. I am currently considering how this commitment might best be implemented and I hope to be in a position to initiate consultations on the issue with relevant interest groups in the near future.