Batt O'Keeffe
Ceist:168 Mr. B. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he will give details of the number of patients awaiting cataract operations; and the action, if any, he proposes to take in this regard. [24711/96]
Written Answers. - Hospital Waiting Lists.
Limerick East): The total number of patients on the public in-patient waiting list for cataract operations at the end of September 1996 was 1,794. The Deputy will be aware that I have made available a total of £12 million in 1996 to address the problem of long waiting times for hospital treatment. The waiting list for ophthalmology procedures, including cataract operations is one of the areas which has benefited from this funding. The reduction of waiting times will continue to be a priority for the Government.