Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 81: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the widespread discontent at the level of gynaecology services in the Cork University Maternity Hospital; and the steps she proposes to take to address this matter. [8549/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Government is committed to the provision of high quality gynaecological services throughout the country, including the Cork region.

The Health Service Executive has advised my Department that the gynaecology service in Cork University Hospital currently includes five gynaecology theatre sessions.

There were approximately 1,152 elective gynaecology procedures carried out in 2007. In addition, there are approximately 17 emergency procedures carried out each month.

There are 3 operating theatres in Cork University Maternity Hospital — one obstetric and two gynaecological theatres. The obstetric theatre is fully staffed and the hospital is currently recruiting senior nursing staff to open and lead the gynaecology theatre service. In the interim, the gynaecology procedures continue to be carried out in the main theatres in Cork University Hospital.

The HSE advises that preparations are under way for the phased opening of the gynaecology theatres in the Maternity Hospital. It is planned that some minor surgical procedures will be carried out there on a trial basis on 27th March with the aim of expanding the gynaecology service from the first week in April. The ultimate aim is to have the gynaecology theatre open on a five days per week basis.