Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 November 2018
161. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the steps that were taken to address the issues raised in a review (details supplied) of the National Centre for Medical Genetics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48817/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Donnai-Newman Report on the Review of Genetics Services in Ireland (2014) was commissioned by the HSE to recommend improvements in the governance, management and future development of the genetic services. The report made several recommendations, the vast majority of which focused on the internal team working and clinical governance issues at Our Lady’s Children's Hospital Crumlin. The report resulted in 56 actions to be undertaken by the HSE and Crumlin Hospital. The HSE has confirmed that 31 of these actions have been implemented and 16 are currently being implemented.
An external multi professional team, led by an experienced NHS UK Health Manager, has been assisting the Department of Clinical Genetics at Crumlin to deliver an improved service for patients and clinical service users. There continues to be investments in the recruitment of extra staff resources and the purchase of new equipment to assist with the implementation of improvements to the service.
A key recommendation of the Donnai-Newman Report was that a Steering Group should be set up to develop a National Genetic and Genomic Medicine Network that reflects best international practice. This Steering Group was established by the HSE in early 2015. Their report included recommending the appointment of a National Director of the National Genetic and Genomic Medicine Network and a Clinical Laboratory Director. The HSE National Service Plan 2018 includes a commitment to commence development of the National Genetics and Genomic Network. These key posts, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, will inform the development of the national strategic direction for genetic and genomic medicine services, including genetic services.
