Health Service Reform.

Tuesday, 27 January 2004

Questions (62)

Joe Costello

Question:

176 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the recent findings of the ESRI report, Equity in the Utilisation of Health Care Services in Ireland; the steps he intends to take to address the issues raised in the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1890/04]

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Written answers

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I am aware of the working paper recently produced by the ESRI on equity in the utilisation of health care in Ireland, which is part of a research programme supported by the Health Research Board under the aegis of my Department.

As the Deputy is aware, this working paper has not yet been finalised. It is subject to further discussion and further exploration of the data involved. It would, therefore, be inappropriate for me to comment on it at this stage.