Vol. 543 No. 1
64 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to a call made at the National Economic and Social Forum for the health services to be protected from parochialism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25520/01]
The system of health care in Ireland is governed centrally while being delivered locally through the network of health boards. This system represents a balance between local and national interests. As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the new national health strategy is expected to be completed shortly and will set out how we see the health services developing over the next seven to ten years. It will set out our new health goals and how we intend to pursue them, so that both local and national needs are met in a balanced and effective manner. The strategy will have regard to the need for an effective and productive health care system that is truly people centred.
65 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Health and Children the expected date of the publication of the bed capacity review commissioned by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25623/01]
The Programme for Prosperity and Fairness outlined the commitment of the Government to review bed capacity in both the acute and non-acute sectors. A comprehensive review of bed capacity needs has been conducted by my Department in conjunction with the Department of Finance and in consultation with the social partners. The review has focused primarily on the emerging need to increase bed capacity and to have a strategic framework in place in terms of the number of additional beds required in the short, medium and longer terms. The findings of the review have informed the preparation of the forthcoming national health strategy.
66 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the crisis at St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, which has resulted in GP referrals to the department of radiology for plain films, barium studies, ultrasound and CT scans not being accepted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25526/01]
Services for eligible patients at St. Vincent's hospital are provided under an arrangement with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. I have, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised and respond directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.
