Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 73: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on calls for additional investment at the National MRSA Reference Laboratory and the fact that the laboratory is currently not in a position to give hospitals the support they need in tackling the problem of MRSA; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17614/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The National MRSA Reference Laboratory is operated by St. James's Hospital. It is a purpose-built facility that provides an essential national support to the overall HSE effort in dealing with the problem of MRSA through a range of services. The current budget for the Laboratory is just over €270,000. Plans for expansion of its operation and resources have been submitted to and are under consideration by the HSE which provides the funding. Tackling Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAIs) including MRSA is a priority for the Government and for the Health Service Executive (HSE). I share the public concern in relation to MRSA. The HSE recently launched its 'Say No to Infection' action plan and a new HCAI Governance Group was established. This Group will manage the HSEs approach to tackling HCAIs including MRSA and is responsible for reducing infection levels in Ireland's healthcare facilities. The Group is supported by eight Local Implementation Teams to ensure that all local facilities are focused on achieving the targets set down.

Over the next three to five years the plan aims to reduce HCAIs by 20%, MRSA infections by 30% and antibiotic consumption by 20%. These targets will be achieved through the development of national and local level action plans to reduce the potential for spread of infections between persons in healthcare settings and to reduce and alter antibiotic use in Ireland. The Group has already agreed a detailed Infection Control Action Plan. This Plan involves a number of targeted actions, based on best practice, that will be delivered across the healthcare system.

The HSE has clear hygiene and infection control standards, has undertaken initiatives on reducing antibiotic consumption and education of the public and of health professionals, including a T.V. and media campaign. In addition, the HSE is currently appointing a number of new infection control nurses, surveillance scientists and antibiotic pharmacists. These staff will strengthen specialist support for infection control and facilitate the development of the national surveillance system. I have also instructed the HSE that designated private beds should be used where isolation facilities are required for patients who contract MRSA. While accepting that not all HCAIs are preventable, I am satisfied that significant steps are being taken to reduce the rates of infection and to treat them promptly when they occur.