Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Senator has raised two issues. As I said in my remarks on the first issue - this is the view of the Department of Health and the Minister as well - basic testing should be done locally. There is no reason that cannot happen and certainly I will bring to the Minister's attention the comments made by the Senator concerning the difficulties in Cork. It is not acceptable that patients would have to travel extensive distances for what are basic tests such as those necessary in the cases he has highlighted.

The second issue relates to the re-advertising of the paediatric urologist post. I have heard what the Senator has had to say. It is a serious matter if an appointment cannot be made. Although I do not wish to prejudge the matter, we cannot allow a hiatus to develop such as what has occurred in recent years whereby no systems are in place while we are waiting for a permanent post to be filled. The suggestions the Senator has made whereby while the post is being filled a more permanent relationship is developed between the hospital in London and the authorities here in Temple Street will be of great value and I will certainly bring it to the Minister's attention.