Health Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 February 2005

Tuesday, 22 February 2005

Ceisteanna (143)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

140 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) has called for an all-Ireland solution to the shortage of children’s cardiac surgeons; if she has contacted or intends to contact her Northern counterpart with a view to establishing a joint feasibility study into the viability of such a service; if so, the proposed timetable for completion of the study; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5979/05]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for paediatric cardiac surgery. It is intended to refer the matter to the executive for its views on the suggestion made by the person referred to by the Deputy.