I propose to take Questions Nos. 203 to 208, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Programme for a Partnership Government committed to the development of a second Cath Lab in University Hospital Waterford, subject to a favourable recommendation from an independent clinical review of the needs of the region. The review was undertaken by Dr Niall Herity, a highly respected, Belfast based NHS cardiologist. During the course of the review Dr Herity met, and had interactions with, a wide range of people and relevant stakeholders as required by the agreed Terms of Reference. This included the South-South West Hospital Group, representatives from University Hospital Waterford and Cork University Hospital, HSE Acute Hospitals Division, the National Ambulance Service, the Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) Programme, the Chief Medical Officer and the Department of Health. My own engagement was limited to providing the Terms of Reference, and a meeting with Dr Herity after receiving the report.
In the course of these engagements, Dr Herity received a number of specific briefings and documents. I note that a request for documents in relation to this issue, submitted by the Deputy under the Freedom of Information Acts, is currently under consideration in my Department.
I would also like to advise the Deputy that the ACS programme was initiated to standardise the treatment of patients suffering from heart attack in its different forms. The Programme has developed a model of care which describes the treatment of ACS and the protocols for an Optimal Reperfusion Service, based on international guidelines and best practice. A national review of PPCI and PCI services is to be undertaken and completed by July 2017; recommendations will be made regarding the future configuration of these services, including the number and location of centres required to serve the population needs.