Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 7 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 1

Written Answers. - Hospital Accommodation.

Joe Costello

Question:

78 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to reports that a person (details supplied) at the Mater Hospital, Dublin, has written to GPs telling them that he cannot take new patient referrals from them for the foreseeable future due to current the bed situation in the hospital; the steps being taken to deal with this situation, particularly in view of the implications for cancer patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11983/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The specific issue referred to by the Deputy is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority in the context of its provider plan discussions with the Mater Hospital. My Department has therefore asked the regional chief executive of the authority to examine the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly. I would expect that, in keeping with established health care practice, priority will continue to be given to those patients in need of urgent treatment.