Hospital Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 March 2004

Tuesday, 9 March 2004

Ceisteanna (252)

Brendan Smith

Ceist:

339 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the difficulties that have emerged at the surgical department, Cavan General Hospital, he will seek the active involvement of senior personnel from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in addressing these issues; if, in view of the college’s role in promoting and maintaining the highest possible standards of medical education, those personnel could be involved directly in advancing and extending the work of this surgical department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7938/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the provision of services at Cavan General Hospital rests with the North Eastern Health Board. Arising from the recent report of the medical advisor to the North Eastern Health Board in relation to the treatment of a number of patients in the department of surgery at Cavan General Hospital, I will be meeting today with the chief executive officer of the board to discuss the report's findings and the board's response to the recommendations made by the medical advisor. In addition, I have recently met with the medical board of Cavan General Hospital in relation to a number of service issues relating to the hospital. The medical board has tabled a range of proposals in this regard and these are the subject of discussion with the North Eastern Health Board. The board has also sought the advice of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and is working closely with the college in this regard.