Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

I am taking this Adjournment matter on behalf of my colleague, the Minister for Health, Deputy James Reilly, and thank the Senator for raising it. The examples he gave in regard to the very young and the elderly show a dysfunctional health system and that is the reason the Government has prioritised reform of the health system and the way we deliver our health services.

The HSE recently published the report of the national audiology review group. The report, to which the Senator referred, contains a comprehensive set of recommendations to address the inconsistencies and inadequacies in audiology services. Work is now under way to improve access and deliver high quality, consistent audiology services throughout the country.

I am glad to be able to inform the Senator that, in addition to the estimated €11 million Exchequer funding available for audiology services annually, this year the HSE is investing an additional €3.7 million to begin the implementation of the recommendations of the review group. This will provide for the first phase of a national newborn hearing screening programme, which is so essential and which has commenced in Cork, and for the appointment of a number of key posts to lead the development of audiology services nationwide.

In regard to audiology services in the south east, as the Senator said, Waterford Regional Hospital is the main unit for referrals in the region. Paediatric third tier screening is provided at Waterford Regional Hospital by an audiological scientist. As the Senator said, the service is currently experiencing some difficulties due to sick leave. However, recruitment of a locum scientist is under way through the regional disabilities office in Cork.The HSE plans to employ additional scientists for the neonatal screening service and to assist with third tier screening waiting lists.

The Minister for Health is determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays, such as those the Senator outlined, in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard, the special delivery unit is a Government priority and is one of the commitments from the programme for Government to be achieved within the first 100 days. On 2 June, the Minister announced that Dr. Martin Connor, an international expert with a proven track record in health service transformation, has been appointed as adviser to the new special delivery unit.

The development of the special delivery unit is a key part of plans to radically reform the health system in Ireland with the ultimate goal of introducing a system of universal health insurance. Dr. Connor, who will report to the Minister, will concentrate on reducing trolley waits in emergency departments and on cutting waiting lists in the health services. A focused approach, targeting the major problem areas, is the best way forward. This is the way in which the Government will address unacceptable waiting times for audiology services.