Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 May 2010
183 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the instance of exstrophy-epispadias complex here; if surgical correction of this condition is available here; if not, if she will explore the possibility of making such surgery available on an all-Ireland basis through co-operation with the health authorities in the Six Counties; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19209/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe figures available to my Department indicate an incidence rate of approximately 1 in 10,000 births over the period 2004 -2008, but caution must be exercised in relying on these figures given the small numbers involved. The requirement for cross border co-operation will be considered conjointly by the Department of Health and Children and the HSE in the light of currently available services.
In relation to the availability of surgical correction of this condition here, I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
