James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

It is not my intention to digress but the Minister referred to cervical screening, which commenced at the beginning of the month. I made a number of telephone calls last night and discovered that only one practice in north Dublin had received a kit. I made my feelings on that matter known in the past and was castigated for doing so. However, there is no point in announcing a service when it is not available. Prematurity only undermines the position.

I referred earlier to Waterford but the Minister did not respond. In what way will resources be provided in order to allow the authorities there to achieve in a month what was supposed to take one year? Will the Minister address the concerns of the people who work there?

Despite the fact that matter has been the subject of media reports for two to three weeks, I received a telephone message from a journalist earlier this afternoon to the effect that there is no advice on the HSE's website for people who were misdiagnosed. A telephone number has not been provided and there is no indication of what they should do. Perhaps the Minister will check the position and ensure this matter is resolved.

The Minister referred to the Commission on Patient Safety, which recommended in its report that a patient safety authority be established. She also referred to HIQA enforcing standards. How can HIQA do so when it is not in a position to censure hospitals? It can set standards and impose them on hospitals but when its officials return 12 months later, they will be informed by the powers that be that they did not get around to implementing them. Nothing can be done in such circumstances. In the case of a private facility, HIQA may be in a position to revoke the licence. In terms of enforcement, the authority lacks teeth.

As usual, the Minister engaged in one of her favourite tricks, namely, reframing the comments I made in respect of Professor Keane and others. I stated that public representatives are the best people to judge public concerns and that experts should be left to their areas of expertise. Their expert opinion in respect of a look-back goes a step further. I stated that HIQA should carry out an independent inquiry and that if, as a result of the latter, a full review is required, it should be carried out expeditiously. I am glad the Minister has taken my view on board in that regard.

Deputy Breen inquired if the Minister is aware of any further cases but she did not provide a reply. Will she indicate whether the biopsy from Limerick was reviewed?

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