Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is a most frustrating situation for parents and particularly for the children who require cochlear implants. I hope little Billy will be able to have his problem resolved in due course. Deputy Adams is aware that there are about 700 involved here every year and I think it is about 200 children. The average cost of a single cochlear implant is between €18,000 and €20,000. A decision was made in the United Kingdom to give bilateral implants to children and adults who need them. I understand that where surgery is required by children under the age of six, it is done at Temple Street Children's Hospital. I do not know the details of little Billy's case. A second implant is not provided in a number of these cases because of the particular circumstances of the case in question.

Beaumont Hospital, which deals with this in the main, has put forward its business proposal in regard to bilateral cochlear implants. A budget of €4.1 million is available this year for cochlear implants. I understand that 48 adults and 42 children were treated last year. I have spoken to the Minister, Deputy Reilly, about this issue. He will consider the business proposal that Beaumont Hospital has submitted to the HSE in the hope that these cases can be dealt with efficiently and speedily. I understand that adults who are referred are seen within six to nine months. Children normally receive an implant within six to seven months, depending on the assessment of the multidisciplinary team. I will have the Minister examine the business proposition that has been put forward by Beaumont Hospital. As I have said, I do not know little Billy's particular case. The assessment of the multidisciplinary team will determine whether he is suitable for a bilateral cochlear implant.

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