Vol. 513 No. 4
159 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the need for genetic counselling for parents and potential parents; the plans, if any, he has to meet this need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2683/00]
Genetic counselling is required for parents or prospective parents where there is a significant history in the family of a disorder with a substantial genetic component. Such counselling should be carried out by properly trained and experienced staff.
The National Centre for Medical Genetics, which is situated on the campus of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin, provides a genetic counselling service through its clinics which are held in Dublin, Cork and Galway. The national centre has identified the need to expand genetic counselling as part of the development of its overall services.
In December 1999, an allocation of £200,000 was made available for the enhancement of services at the national centre, the detail of which will be the subject of discussions to be held between officials of my Department and the hospital in the context of its service plan for 2000.
