Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise what has been a topical issue for many years in the Waterford and south east region, the availability of around-the-clock, seven days a week invasive cardiology services at Waterford Regional Hospital which will soon become Waterford University Hospital. I acknowledge the great progress made with regard to the provision for the people of the south east of essential emergency services for invasive cardiology treatment in the event of a heart attack. The region has a population of almost 500,000 and in the event of a critical heart attack, Waterford University Hospital, as it will be known in the future, is the closest location for invasive treatment. The cat lab unit at Waterford Regional Hospital was opened in 2008 and at that stage it was open for two days a week but currently it is open five days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The concern is that in the event of a person in the south east region suffering a heart attack outside of those hours, for example, in the evening or at weekends, these vital services are not available. There is much talk about equality in politics and in society but I contend that there needs to be equality in access to health services for citizens living in all parts of the country. Those living in Dublin, Cork or Galway will have 24-seven access to these services but those living in Waterford or in the south east region do not have after-hours access to these vital services.

I call on the Government and I ask the Minister of State for reassurances about the commitments made that this regional service would be retained. There was much concern when the reconfiguration of hospital services was announced some time ago. Commitments were made that regional services such as this would be retained at Waterford hospital. I am seeking reassurances that we are moving along and that a genuine effort is being made by the HSE, the Government and by the Department of Health, to deliver this vital service to ensure equality of access to health services for citizens in the south east. What is needed is a second cat lab, additional consultants and supporting staff. I am hopeful the Minister of State will be able to respond positively to my request as I carry this message from Waterford and the south east region from people who are genuinely concerned and who want this equal access to vital services.

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