Palliative Care

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2011

Tuesday, 18 October 2011

Questions (448)

Simon Harris

Question:

467 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the policy on palliative care for children and young persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29664/11]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Kathleen Lynch)

‘Palliative care for children with life-limiting conditions — A National Policy' was adopted as Government policy on 15 December 2009. This Policy aims to ensure that all children with life-limiting conditions will have the choice and opportunity to be cared for at home. Implementation of Phase 1 of the policy recommended the appointment of 1 Paediatric Palliative Care Consultant, and 8 Outreach Nurses nationally (2 per HSE region).

At present, the Consultant post and 2 of the Outreach Nursing posts have been filled. The Department will continue to liaise closely with the Health Service Executive to fill the outstanding nursing posts as quickly as possible.