Maternity Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2017

Tuesday, 21 March 2017

Questions (759)

Seán Sherlock

Question:

759. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Health if a clinical director for maternity services has been appointed for the South-South West hospital group; the name of that person; if the role is clearly defined with a delegation order or other such official designation; if the role has managerial autonomy in relation to budgetary matters with a clear and distinct operating budget within the South-South West hospital group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12969/17]

Written answers

Minister for Health

I am advised that Prof John Higgins was appointed Clinical Director of the Women and Children Services Directorate for the South-South West Hospital Group with effect from 27 February last. Prof. Higgins has now assumed clinical and executive responsibility for maternity services in the Group's four maternity hospitals viz Cork University Maternity Hospital, University Hospital Kerry, University Hospital Waterford and South Tipperary General Hospital.

I understand that an Order has been made, under Section 16H of the Health Act 2004, sub-delegating certain functions in relation to maternity services to Prof Higgins. I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly in relation to the specific information requested regarding the functions which have been delegated.