Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit. I raise the matter of the provision of paediatric diabetes services at Cork University Hospital. In particular I am asking the Health Service Executive as well as the Minister for Health and Children and her Department to explain why, despite reassurances and promises, there has been a failure to carry out improvements to this paediatric diabetes unit. I raised this matter yesterday on the Order of Business and I have tabled it today as an Adjournment matter because it is of some importance. There is an overriding need to have the required number of staff allocated for this unit which is solely dedicated to paediatric diabetes services. An improvement in that regard is crucial.

I am sure the Minister of State will agree it is unacceptable that a group of parents and children yesterday had to take to the streets outside Cork University Hospital to protest as part of their ongoing campaign for the better quality to which they are entitled. More than 270 children attend Cork University Hospital for treatment. There is just one paediatric consultant and one clinical nurse specialist post operated by two nurses on a job sharing basis. It was not until the eve of the protest that a paediatric dietician post which had been vacant for some time was filled. International guidelines reveal that, in this case, the staffing level is well below what is required. As we all know, diabetes is not a short-term illness but a lifelong illness that will not go away. It needs to be treated using proper staff and a proper hands-on approach.

I accept a specialised dietician was appointed yesterday. Is this person suitably qualified and is the position full-time? Can the Government guarantee a multidisciplinary team solely dedicated to tackling paediatric diabetes will be put in place?

I look forward to the Minister of State's reply.