James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

The Ceann Comhairle continually advises Members of the House to try another route but there is no other route. My colleague, Deputy Mitchell, tabled to the Minister for Health and Children a parliamentary question regarding a patient and got the following response, which I will read for the Ceann Comhairle's information. It states:

I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action by the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you however I would invite you to raise it with me again.

This inquiry relates to a patient who has an aneurysm, which is a life threatening condition, who has been waiting 18 months for surgery. What does this answer mean? Does it mean the Deputy should contact the Minister again if the patient is still alive?

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