Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
713. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 565 of 20 February 2024, if he can provide a timeline for when the operation is going to be in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10323/24]
View answerMy Department is actively addressing a number of complex issues with the HSE and other stakeholders in relation to uro-gynaecological mesh. I wish to assure you that my Department is also working closely with key stakeholders, both nationally and internationally, including patient advocacy groups, to understand and address the challenges associated with mesh surgery.
I understand the impact this has on women who wish to avail of this surgery. However, the pause on mesh was put in place pending confirmation of the implementation of specific recommendations in the CMO’s Report on 'The Use of Uro-Gynaecological Mesh in Surgical Procedures' (2018). My Department take a safety first approach in relation to such issues, and at this time, it is not possible to provide you with a specific timeline for when mesh insertion surgery will re-commence.
Additionally, it is important to note that the pause in mesh placement is also in place in neighbouring jurisdictions. It is important that my Department receive the necessary assurance on this complex issue to ensure that both current and future service provision aligns with the needs of patients along with the HSE’s implementation of the CMO’s recommendations in any future decision in relation to the current pause on mesh.
