Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 17 Nov 1999

Vol. 511 No. 1

Written Answers. - Gender Realignment Surgery.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

110 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Cork in relation to transsexual gender dysphoric patients; and his Department's policy in this regard. [23805/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

I have received correspondence from the person concerned and have replied to same.

Gender realignment surgery is not performed in Ireland. The Deputy will be aware, however, that there is a scheme in place whereby a person who has been considered by an appropriate consultant to require such treatment may apply to their respective health board for financial assistance towards the receipt of such treatment abroad. It is the statutory responsibility of the boards to administer this scheme.