Vol. 519 No. 2
211 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that delays by his Department in funding Beaumont Hospital's blood and tissue typing service may result in some Irish heart patients being forced to travel abroad for life saving transplants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13587/00]
The tissue typing service referred to by the Deputy is provided by the Irish Blood Transfusion Service. I am aware that discussions have been held in recent weeks between the IBTS, Beaumont Hospital and the Mater Hospital which resulted in agreement on the transfer of this service to Beaumont Hospital. A number of service issues surrounding the proposed transfer of this service, including any resulting financial implications, are now being assessed by the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the issue will be further progressed in the light of its deliberations.
