Genetic Testing.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 October 2008

Tuesday, 21 October 2008

Questions (162)

David Stanton

Question:

251 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children her policy with respect to genetic testing, general chromosome testing to detect downs syndrome, chromosome testing for leukemia patients and tests for single gene disorders including cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, Huntington’s disease, hereditary ataxias and hereditary cancers; the support her Department makes available for such services; her plans to support or further develop such services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35400/08]

Written answers

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The National Centre for Medical Genetics seeks to provide a comprehensive service for all patients and families in the Republic of Ireland affected by or at risk of a genetic disorder. The Centre is based in Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin. The Centre provides a service for both children and adults.

The Centre receives Exchequer funding from within the financial determination as notified by the Health Service Executive to Our Lady's Children's Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has asked the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to reply directly to the Deputy on the additional issues raised.