Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 June 2014
710. Deputy Michael P. Kitt asked the Minister for Health in view of approximately 40% of the births at Portiuncula Hospital by mothers from the Midlands Health Service Executive area, and in view of the motorway access to Ballinasloe for the surrounding large catchment area, if the development of Portiuncula Hospital as a centre of maternity excellence will be given consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25880/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, my Department is currently developing a new National Strategy for Maternity Services which will determine the optimal configuration of maternity services to ensure that women in Ireland have access to safe, high quality maternity care in a setting most appropriate to their needs. As part of the development of the Strategy, all maternity services in the country will be reviewed and evaluated. In that context, the role of individual maternity hospitals around the country, including Portiuncula, will be considered.
