Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2016
302. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he will investigate the delays in relation to staffing at a hospital (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the delay in having all staff in place is resulting in a delay in the commencement of the new double kidney and pancreas transplant programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33319/16]
View answerAn extensive programme of work has been undertaken in St Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH) to enable the transfer of the Pancreatic Transplant Programme from Beaumont Hospital. This work included:
- the development and implementation of a multi-disciplinary team approach:
- the recruitment of additional personnel including an additional transplant surgeon, an additional transplant fellow, two transplant co-ordinators, a clinical nurse manager and a clinical facilitator for transplant in theatre;
- engagement with external parties including establishing links with the Royal Infirmary Transplant Centre in Edinburgh; and
- nurse education and training.
The level of staffing required to undertake this work is in place. However, a delay in progressing nurse training has arisen due to an Industrial Relations issue. I am advised that SVUH and the INMO are continuing to engage in an effort to resolve this issue.
