Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I revert to an issue I raised a number of weeks ago, namely, that of cystic fibrosis services. I believed this matter had been done and dusted in the Dáil three weeks ago when I was fairly satisfied with the Taoiseach's response. The problem stems from the considerable confusion caused by a major change made last Tuesday. Will the Taoiseach respond to a letter I received from a constituent of mine who is a person with cystic fibrosis attending St. Vincent's Hospital? The letter reads:

We all watched prime time on Tuesday with a sigh of relief as this part of the battle was coming to an end. The harsh reality that was presented to us in the last seconds of the programme (only 20 inpatient beds) and the realisation we have to continue fighting is almost too much to comprehend.

It continues:

I am afraid to go into hospital and have never had the luxury of an en-suite single room. I do not understand how people who understand what we are going through can do this to us.

Will the Taoiseach confirm to the House that 34 beds with en-suite facilities will be available for cystic fibrosis patients at St. Vincent's Hospital when the new wing is finished next year? Will he end the confusion on the matter, particularly after the "Prime Time" report, where the Minister announced there would be 20 beds for the purpose? By the Friday he seemed to revert to the original 34-bed figure.

If the figure for 34 en-suite rooms is accurate - I hope it is - will the Taoiseach remove the 20-bed figure from the agenda? Does the Taoiseach accept that cystic fibrosis patients and their families have a right to the precise figure? Does the Taoiseach understand the hurt, anxiety and trauma caused to cystic fibrosis patients by these announcements? Will the Taoiseach confirm that 34 beds with en-suite facilities will be dedicated to cystic fibrosis patients at St. Vincent's Hospital?

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