Responsibility for the organisation and management of the Irish Blood Transfusion Service – IBTS – is a matter for its board of management. In April 2000 the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children published its report on single site testing of blood products which I have studied in detail. The Joint Committee considered that the import of the presentations made to it might be that the security, backup and synergy provided through enhancing the current two site testing arrangements seem significantly superior to relying on a new and as yet unproven centre for all the country's blood testing facilities. The report also refers to the need to ensure optimal patient care in accordance with international practice and to optimise resources to the maximum possible degree. It also refers to the risk of contamination of centralised laboratories and of closure due to industrial problems.
I understand that the board's preliminary consideration of the report took place at its meeting on 10 May 2000 and detailed consideration of the report is now taking place. I expect to meet the board as soon as it completes its consideration of the report. I also understand that the Joint Committee is meeting with representatives of the board tomorrow concerning the report.