Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Yes, but I know I have to act responsibly within the constraints of the budget.

With the introduction of a bilateral programme, those children that have already received one implant would need to be assessed for candidacy and provided with relevant information about advantages and disadvantages of a second implant. In Britain, the authorities recommend simultaneous bilateral cochlear implants as the best option for children. For those with one implant already, however, it is recommended they should have an additional implant only if it is considered to be of sufficient benefit to the recipient. It is advised a full and frank discussion should take place between the recipient and their parents or carers. This would initiate a programme of a pre-assessment, operation and fitting, and post-operative care. It also would outline how secondary implants could be provided to the children who have had one implant already and have already been assessed.

The proposal the HSE is following outlines the estimated requirements for the introduction of a simultaneous bilateral cochlear implantation programme and sets out how the sequential implantation may be managed. This proposal will involve the recruitment of extra staff, the purchasing of equipment and further building works and will be dependent on additional funding being made available.

The Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, stated earlier she is making this her priority. The Deputies on this side of the House will make it their priority too.

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