Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for taking the time to deal with this issue. I am concerned about the waiting time in having cataract operations performed and accessing the required expertise to deal with eye problems, particularly for elderly persons. In the past six months I have received many queries about the waiting list and waiting time for cataract operations, particularly in Cork. One of the things I want to find out is how the issue can be dealt with now to make sure patients receive treatment in a timely matter. I ask the question because the greater the delay in receiving treatment the less likely it is that a specialist will be able to solve eye problems. The issue is extremely important because the loss of eyesight leaves a person extremely limited and in need of a lot support from the health service. It is extremely important, therefore, that anyone who has problems with his or her eyes, his or her eyesight in particular, and requires a cataract operation have the procedure carried out at the earliest possible stage. It is in that context that I raise the question. I want to know, in particular, whether services for the people who are waiting can be outsourced and the number who can be accommodated in accessing treatment, particularly in Cork.