Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 June 2012
876 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the total number of closed operating theatres in public hospitals around the country; if he will provide a breakdown of the hospitals affected; the number of theatres that are closed in each hospital and the length of time each theatre has been closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26550/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including the management of referrals from GPs by hospitals. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies — mainly the HSE and the NTPF. I have referred this question to the HSE so that the information can be provided directly to the Deputy.
