Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Question 66: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of patients suffering from mental or behavioural problems sent out of the State for treatment in 2003, 2004 and 2005; when the report on neurological services will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8545/06]

Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)
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As part of the Estimates for health services in 2006, additional funding of €3 million was allocated specifically for the further development of neurology and neurophysiology services. This funding was provided to allow the Health Service Executive to further progress the implementation of the recommendations made by the former Comhairle na nOspidéal in respect of these services. The Comhairle report, which has been published, recommended significant enhancement of services, including the appointment of additional consultants. While reaching the full complement of consultant posts, as recommended, will take some time, major improvements in patient care can be achieved in the shorter term through a combination of additional consultant posts and the appointment of a number of clinical nurse specialists and allied health professionals.

My Department is advised by the executive that the development of three new neurology units — one in the mid-west, one in the north west and one in the south east — will commence during 2006 with the appointment of multi-disciplinary teams comprising consultant neurologists and support staff. The HSE will also invest in neurophysiology services in 2006, with the development of an innovative tele-neurophysiology link between Sligo General Hospital and Beaumont Hospital. This initiative is designed to reduce waiting times for diagnostic testing.

On the Deputy's question regarding the number of patients suffering from mental or behavioural problems sent out of the State for treatment in 2003, 2004 and 2005, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and a reply issued directly to the Deputy.