Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
1524. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of recent newspaper reports that staff of the Office of the Chief Clinical Officer are supporting a UK legal case which seeks to make it harder for transgender adults to access healthcare (details supplied); and if he agrees that this compromises the impartiality of the planned development of a new transgender model of care. [14908/24]
View answerI do not believe it would be appropriate for me to comment on legal proceedings taking place in another jurisdiction.
As the Deputy is aware, the HSE has identified the need to develop an updated and integrated Model of Care for transgender services, informed by the best evidence-based clinical evidence and input from healthcare professionals, patient advocates and those with lived experience.
The Clinical Lead for transgender services has now been appointed and will take up the position shortly. Once in place, this person will lead a team to develop the new model of care.
Developing a Model of Care for gender healthcare services is expected to be a complex process and the HSE and my Department will work closely together to support the process, ensure transparency and keep the patient at the centre of the process.
I welcome the development of a model of care which will deliver a high quality seamless and integrated service for people with gender identity issues.
