Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 132: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when elective surgery will recommence at the orthopaedic unit at Mayo General Hospital; if elective surgery has been carried out to date; if so, the extent of same; and if she will make a statement on the current running of the unit. [16380/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services.

Mayo General Hospital commenced the provision of an elective orthopaedic service at the beginning of September 2004. This elective service continued up until December 2004. Orthopaedic trauma services began in January 2004 and continue to be provided at Mayo General Hospital. It was agreed to temporarily suspend elective services to plan and manage the introduction of the trauma service. I understand that the Health Service Executive western area is working with the staff involved to restart the elective service as soon as possible.

My Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to inform the Deputy of the current position with regard to the recommencement of elective orthopaedic services at Mayo General Hospital.