Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 28 Jun 2001

Vol. 539 No. 3

Written Answers. - Hospital Waiting Lists.

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

68 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the criticism expressed by Comhairle na nOispidéal that the waiting lists initiative is creating a high level of temporary consultant posts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19203/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

I am aware of Comhairle na nOspideal's views on this matter and I am having this situation reviewed.

I am sure the Deputy is aware that the waiting list initiative has been a valuable element of hospital activity since its inception in 1993. This initiative has funded a large number of elective procedures and has enabled thousands of patients to receive treatment more quickly than would have been possible under normal hospital services.

John Browne

Ceist:

69 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for Health and Children the hospital waiting lists as at 31 March 2001 in respect of each hospital and in respect of each speciality at each hospital; and the number of people waiting in excess of six months, 12 months and two years in each case. [19326/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

The hospital in-patient waiting times and the numbers on waiting lists as at 31 March 2001, in the format collected by my Department, are being communicated separately to the Deputy.