Vol. 554 No. 5
1019 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the significant decline in market sales due mainly to the way funds are distributed under the health board schemes called technical aids and appliances; and if there is a problem with trading competitors in this field alleging that they are effectively being eliminated by one competitor getting favourable access by health boards to provide technology. [15896/02]
The provision of aids and appliances to people with a physical or sensory disability is a matter in the first instance for the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards under the aegis of the Department of Health and Children.
My Department is aware of concerns raised by one company regarding the provision of aids and appliances. In late 2000, the Department of Health and Children investigated this issue and satisfied itself that the correct tendering procedures are being operated by the health boards for the purchase of aids and appliances.
In July of this year, my Department reiterated the need for health boards to comply fully with EU tendering regulations when procuring technical aids and appliances.
Question No. 1020 answered with Question No. 940.
