Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 27 Jun 2002

Vol. 553 No. 7

Written Answers. - Ophthalmic Service.

John Dennehy

Question:

137 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in consultation with the Minister for Health and Children, all school-going children will receive regular eye examinations as undetected eye problems can cause serious damage to a child's progress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15073/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

My Department is not responsible for and does not operate a school ophthalmic treatment programme. Such a programme would be a matter for the Minister for Health and Children and the health boards. Any request for co-operation by my Department in relation to such a programme would be considered sympathetically.