Vol. 574 No. 5
102 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the serious concern expressed by a person (details supplied) that very ill children are being prevented from having tumours thoroughly investigated due to the fact Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin does not have an MRI scanner; when the promised MRI facility will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27556/03]
My Department approved the establishment of MRI facilities at Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin in July 2002. This approval was based on a detailed service assessment carried out by the Eastern Regional Health Authority, which found that the volume, nature and complexity of paediatric conditions dealt with at Our Lady's Hospital required the provision of on-site MRI facilities. It has been accepted by the hospital, the ERHA and my Department that the proposed development is a priority in order to develop and enhance the existing level of diagnostic services for children. A project team was established to advance the planning of these facilities. The project team recently completed the design brief for the development, the overall capital cost of which is estimated as being of the order of €5 million. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that sanction has been given to appoint a design team to progress the next stage of this important development.
Question No. 103 answered with Question No. 101.
