Health Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 November 2008

Thursday, 20 November 2008

Ceisteanna (93)

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

93 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the announcement that a new bus was to be provided to service the needs of radiotherapy patients commuting between Sligo and Galway; the source of this funding; if the bus will be the responsibility of the Health Service Executive; if not, the person who will be responsible; when the bus service will be in operation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42035/08]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

There is currently a bus service funded by the Health Service Executive to transport Sligo patients attending for radiotherapy treatment and other clinics at Galway University Hospital. An application was received by my Department from the Friends of Sligo Hospital for a National Lottery grant to assist with the purchase of a new bus. In September 2008 I approved a grant of €170,000 from my Department's 2008 allocation of National Lottery funds towards the cost of purchasing a new bus. I understand that Friends of Sligo Hospital are in the process of sourcing a suitable bus and that the running costs of this service will continue to be met by the HSE.