Vol. 519 No. 2
216 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to introduce legislation which would ensure that hospitals have an adequate number of staff available to perform lawful treatments in the event of other staff having conscientious objections to performing or assisting with certain treatments. [13592/00]
I am not aware that the right of conscientious objection of individual staff members represents an obstacle to the treatment of patients in our health care system. In the circumstances, it is not my intention at this point to introduce legislation in this area. In this regard, I would draw the Deputy's attention to the Medical Council's Guide to Ethical Conduct and Behaviour which states that if a practitioner has an objection to a course of action, this should be explained and the names of other doctors made available to the patient.
Finally, it is my intention to invite views from An Bord Altranais on whether its code of professional conduct for each nurse and midwife adequately addresses the issue in the context of nursing.
220 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on a decision made by Beaumont Hospital to undertake an extensive review of its undergraduate training involvement, focusing on the effect which the presence of medical staff has on the hospital and its services; and the discussions he has had with the hospital in this regard. [13596/00]
I have been in touch with Beaumont Hospital regarding this matter. Both Beaumont Hospital and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland have agreed to undertake an extensive review of the operational issues that arise between both institutions with a view to establishing the relationship on a more formal footing for the future. Issues such as teaching research and financial matters will form the basis of this review which both parties feel will prove to be a very beneficial foundation for the future of teaching and research within Beaumont.
