Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2003

Vol. 571 No. 1

Written Answers. - CFS-ME Services.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

829 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children the actions which are proposed following the meeting of the Department and the Irish ME Trust; if a liaison officer as suggested by the Irish ME Trust will be appointed; and if a specialised unit is envisaged in principle or in fact. [19892/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Officials of my Department, including the chief medical officer, have met with representatives of the Irish ME Trust, both this year and last year. The Department's chief medical officer has pointed out the limitations on the health care system's ability to provide a full range of services to those who are already diagnosed with CFS-ME. These limitations are the same as for those who suffer from other chronic diseases. The allocation of resources needs to be based on priority health needs and on evidence as to what interventions are seen to be most effective in combating these conditions. It is difficult in the current circumstances to identify funding to establish specialised units for CFS-ME sufferers.

In view of the meetings which have taken place, I do not believe a departmental liaison person needs to be appointed as suggested by the Irish ME Trust. However, I would like to assure the Deputies that my Department will continue to keep the issue of providing services to CFS- ME sufferers under review, taking account, in particular, of the experience of initiatives in other countries.