Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

Yes. A total of 17.5 physiotherapy posts are filled at the moment. It is a question of the manner in which physiotherapists are allocated. I understand that the person in question will be replaced when she goes on maternity leave. I do not have the figures on scoliosis in my head. I think I had them for an earlier question. I understand that 11 operations were postponed, of which nine were rearranged. It was something in that order. If I cannot find the figures, I will give them to the Deputy after this debate. As I said in my initial reply, the HSE is working with the hospital on the issue of scoliosis, which is a serious condition. As I see it, the money we are allocating to the three hospitals in 2009, for the treatment of children with these serious conditions, should be sufficient to deal with those who most need attention. I acknowledge and welcome the fact that, notwithstanding the current budgetary constraints, the level of activity at Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, this year is already ahead of that for last year. If the three hospitals work with the HSE, they will be able to deal with the issues that are concerning them all.

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