Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Following the publication of the Pollock report, which reviewed the existing hospital services for person with cystic fibrosis, the Health Service Executive established a working group to examine cystic fibrosis services. The working group is multi-disciplinary in its composition and includes representation from the Cystic Fibrosis Association.

The terms of reference of the working group is to review the current configuration and delivery of services to cystic fibrosis patients in the Republic of Ireland, across hospitals and the community, and to make recommendations for reconfiguration, improvement and development. The working group will consider the report prepared by Dr. Pollock on behalf of the Cystic Fibrosis Association in Ireland and will encompass aspects of service alluded to but not covered in depth in that report, including cystic fibrosis services delivered in the community, the cystic fibrosis register, training and development of clinical staff, cost structures, and cross-border arrangements.

The group held its first meeting in early April and there have been three further meetings. I understand that it hopes to complete its work over the next few months. The work of the group will result in an agreed proposal for the development and reconfiguration of services for cystic fibrosis patients in Ireland.

The Health Service Executive will have the responsibility for implementing and funding any recommendations made by the group. My Department will, therefore, request the executive to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to her query regarding the timetable for the finalisation of the Group's recommendations in the context of the 2006 Estimates.