Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 October 2005
270 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her policy on the care of cystic fibrosis patients; the steps she will take to ensure they are adequately segregated in hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30328/05]
View answer271 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her policy proposals to address the fact that the average age of death of cystic fibrosis patients here is 21 compared to 30 in Northern Ireland and 45 in the United States; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30329/05]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 270 and 271 together.
Following the publication of the Pollock Report, commissioned by the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland, the Health Service Executive established a multidisciplinary working group to review the current configuration and delivery of services to persons with cystic fibrosis in Ireland. The working group is also to make recommendations for the reconfiguration, improvement and development of those services. I understand that the work is at an advanced stage.
The provision of additional resources for the development of services for persons with cystic fibrosis will be considered in the light of the group's recommendations. I have arranged to meet with representatives of the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland later this week to discuss the future needs of persons with cystic fibrosis.
