Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 17 December 2019

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health

Engagement with Patient Representatives on CervicalCheck and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Review Process

Photo of Alan KellyAlan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour) | Oireachtas source

That is very interesting information that needs further analysis because it would cause deep concern. Mr. Teap might share that information with us and we will then perhaps process that through the right channels.

I have two last questions. Both witnesses can give them quick-fire answers. First, we talk about the limitations of screening. I am very much taken by the way in which both witnesses have said everyone needs to come together now. At the end of Ms Walsh's submission she said, "We must heal any divisions and emerge united and strong." I know she means that passionately and believes we should work collectively for everyone. In fairness, let us not forget about all the good stuff happening such as the HPV vaccine, screening, the legacy of Laura Brennan, the implementation of the Scally report and so on. However, there has been some conflict in recent times, with clinicians talking about the limitations of screening, and we know of all the other issues that have arisen. Those of us who are into detail know that certain things are outside the limitations of screening. However, the fact that we do not have a definition in any way of the limitations of screening, as currently constituted or whatever, is a real issue. The witnesses' comments on what I have just said would be helpful.

Second, based on what Mr. Teap said earlier, do the witnesses believe that the new audit process which must be brought in, and which is under something of a review at present, should commence the day after the old one finishes?

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