Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Jan 2003

Vol. 560 No. 1

Written Answers. - Hospital Waiting Lists.

John McGuinness

Question:

651 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 155 of 7 December 2000, 222 of 6 March 2001, 205 of 27 June 2002 and 314 of 15 October 2002, if the report mentioned in his reply is available; if he will make a comprehensive reply immediately; his views on the length of time it has taken to obtain a reply from the health board concerned; if he has satisfied himself with this situation; and the steps he intends to take to improve efficiency or at least get a reply. [1316/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I am advised that the Eastern Regional Health Authority wrote to the Deputy on 15 January 2003 advising him that the surgery was performed on the 30 December 2002 on the person referred to by the Deputy. The person was discharged from Our Lady's Hospital, Crumlin, on 6 January 2003. The Eastern Regional Health Authority was in regular correspondence with the relevant hospital with a view to expediting the necessary surgery. The authority was awaiting the successful outcome of the discussions before so advising the Deputy.

In my reply to the Deputy's parliamentary question of 27 June 2002, I advised that my Department had requested a report on the matter from the chief executive officer of the authority. The authority subsequently advised my Department of the position and in August 2002 I wrote to the Deputy advising him of the up to date position and the efforts of the authority to arrange surgery. I am also advised that the authority wrote to the Deputy in May 2001.