John Perry
Question:60 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on the matter raised by the North West Hospice regard ing the appointment of a bereavement counsellor (details supplied). [27357/99]
Written Answers. - Bereavement Counsellors.
As the Deputy is aware, the provision of palliative care services in the area in question is a matter for the North Western Health Board.
I have had inquiries made of the board and I am informed that the Donegal based bereavement counsellor took up appointment on 1 November 1999. The Sligo-based counsellor will take up appointment early in 2000. As indicated in Minister Cowen's reply to the North West Hospice on 15 November 1999 any matter concerning the provision of the bereavement counselling service should be directed to the North Western Health Board. I understand that a meeting took place yesterday evening between officials from the board and the hospice concerning this issue and that discussions are ongoing.