Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Jul 2001

Vol. 540 No. 2

Written Answers. - Hospital Waiting Lists.

Willie Penrose

Question:

189 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will ensure that a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath is immediately admitted for orthopaedic treatment to Tullamore General Hospital; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the orthopaedic unit is closing down for the next six weeks; if, in view of same, he will ensure that people who are in need of urgent treatment are admitted and do not have to wait; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20476/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the provision of health services to persons living in County Westmeath rests with the Midland Health Board. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply to him directly. I assure the Deputy it is established policy in health care that emergency cases should be treated as a priority.