Vol. 494 No. 4
295 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to concerns relating to the reported evolution of antibiotic-resistant super bugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18476/98]
I am aware of concerns relating to antibiotic-resistant organisms. A lot of international research has been carried out in this area and at a European level Ireland is involved in surveillance of antibiotic-resistant organisms.
On the initiative of EU chief medical officers a major international conference on this subject was held in Copenhagen in September 1998. My Department was represented by the deputy chief medical officer and service providers were represented by a range of health care professionals. The Department of Agriculture and Food was also represented at the conference. Arising from recommendations made at the conference, my Department is entering into discussions with appropriate agencies, including the new national disease surveillance unit, with a view to disseminating relevant information through the Irish health service and monitoring any further developments in this area.
I would also refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions Nos. 449, 476 and 477 of 30 September 1998 which dealt with the position relating to MRSA.
