David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Ms Martin. We have limited time. I wanted to ask a number of questions. We will address some issues with the HSE later. I wanted to focus on two key matters. The available range of treatments is important to the witnesses. It seems to me that there is an option for a partial removal or a full removal, with pain management being available for cases where that is not possible. It seems from both opening statements that a full removal is not really an option in this State. Many women have to travel abroad, but the treatment abroad scheme is not effective and barriers are being put in their way. I ask the witnesses to explain again what those barriers are. That is important. The HSE's opening statement mentions that the scheme is working effectively, yet the experience of the witnesses is that it is not working. The HSE talks about the two centres of the national mesh complication service in Dublin and Cork being up and running to treat patients. The translabial scan is obviously important. Is it the experience of the witnesses that the scanning equipment is operational in both Cork and Dublin? Is it only available in one or is it only partially available? What level of service is being provided? That question is for both Ms Martin and Ms McLaughlin.