Vol. 551 No. 2
296 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children his proposals to develop a major strategy to address the chronic deficiencies in the provision of neurology services which was highlighted in a report (details supplied). [10092/02]
The report referred to by the Deputy, which I recently launched, was published by the Neurological Alliance and is the third and final report in their Standards of Care series. This series of publications seek to address the needs and requirements of people in Ireland who suffer from a wide range of neurological conditions. Arising from a number of meetings with various interest groups, including representatives of the Neurological Alliance, I requested Comhairle na nOspidéal to conduct a review of neurological services and related issues. In April 2001, Comhairle advised my Department that it had established a committee to undertake the review with the following terms of reference: to examine the existing arrangements for the provision of consultant-level neurology and neurophysiology services nationally and following consultation with the interests concerned and to make recommendations to Comhairle na nOspidéal on the future organisation and development of neurology and neurophysiology services.
The review will focus on updating the 1991 Comhairle report taking into account recent advances in and increasing demand for neurological and neurophysiological services. The Comhairle review is at an advanced stage and will be completed shortly. The need for additional investment in neurology and neurophysiology services will be considered in the light of the review, other competing priorities, and the availability of adequate funding.
