Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 129: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the number of representations made to her from consultants at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, regarding the quality and safety of treatment offered to patients; the action she has taken in response to these concerns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32261/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I have received direct correspondence, and copies of correspondence to the Health Service Executive (HSE), from consultants at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda regarding acute hospital services at Drogheda. The issues raised have been the subject of detailed discussions between officials of my Department and the HSE in order to ensure that any action necessary is taken to guarantee the provision of safe services to patients.

Management of capacity at Drogheda and across the North East region is complex and involves a major shift in services between the existing five hospitals and to a primary care setting. It is clear that the implementation of the North East Transformation Programme is key to achieving the necessary re-organisation and integration of services in order to ensure that the public has access to better quality services. The Programme involves widespread and fundamental change and is designed to build a health system that is in line with the model of care emerging internationally. The overriding aim, which I fully support, is the need to improve safety and achieve better standards of care for patients in the region.