Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for the constructive manner in which he has approached this matter. I take on board his acknowledgement of Professor O'Grady and all of the work he has done over the past eight years to develop this service, which is very important.

The Government is committed to further developing and strengthening diabetes services throughout the country, for both children and adults, given the prospective increases in the number of people that will be affected by this chronic health condition in the years ahead. I reiterate that it is expected that the new paediatric diabetes nurse will take up employment shortly. The HSE has not mentioned this will happen in 2022 but, coming from the particular area, I am sure the Deputy has a lot more knowledge on this issue than I do.

I understand the widespread concern that the current suspension of the paediatric diabetes service in Regional Hospital Mullingar has caused. As I said, the HSE has advised that an offer has been made to a successful candidate and the recruitment process for this post will be finalised as quickly as is possible. I am confident that the paediatric diabetes service will recommence operation when this post is filled. I will bring the Deputy's concerns to the attention of the HSE.

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