I propose to take Questions Nos. 811 and 1018 together.
Neurological services in the Western Health Board area are provided by a medical and support team lead by two consultant neurologists. Comhairle na nOspidéal has recently completed a report on a review of neurology and neuorophysiology services. This report recommends the appointment of a third consultant neurologist to be based at University College Hospital, Galway. The report envisages a complement of four consultant neurologists sharing responsibility for the provision of neurology services for the people and hospitals in the catchment area in the longer term. As regards other regions of the country, the report also recommends significant enhancement of neurology and neurophysiology services, and increases in consultant staffing.
The report is being examined by the health boards, the Eastern Regional Health Authority and my Department. The question of additional investment in neurology and neurophysiology will be considered in the light of the Comhairle review, other competing priorities, and the availability of adequate funding.
In relation to neurosurgical services, the Deputy will be aware I have asked Comhairle na nOspidéal to carry out a review of neurosurgical services and to prepare a report for my consideration. Comhairle has been asked to focus, in particular, on the provision of adequate capacity and consideration of equity of access to neurosurgical services having regard to best practice in the provision of quality healthcare. I understand that the work of the Comhairle committee on neurosurgical services is ongoing. Decisions in relation to the further organisation of neurosurgical services will be informed by the Comhairle report.