Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 7 Jun 2000

Vol. 520 No. 4

Written Answers. - Toxicology Reports.

Tony Gregory

Question:

118 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the statement of the Deputy State Pathologist in a national newspaper (details supplied) that six months can elapse before toxicology results are returned from cash-starved laboratories; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15871/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

Details of waiting times for toxicology reports in relation to post-mortem examinations are not routinely collected by my Department.

I have therefore, asked the regional chief executive officer of the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the chief executive officers of the other health boards to investigate this matter and reply directly to the Deputy.