Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 314: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in relation to the programme for Government proposal to improve health facilities on the offshore islands to ensure that they are fully equipped to deal with routine and where necessary emergency medical situations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47868/08]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 316: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in relation to the programme for Government proposal to provide better ante and post-natal services on islands; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47870/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 314 and 316 together.

As the Deputy's questions refer to a service matter they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 315: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in relation to the programme for Government proposal to provide telemedicine facilities to allow the most remote island communities and medical practitioners access to doctors and consultants in specialist hospitals here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47869/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I understand that the HSE has prepared a draft ICT strategy which will include investment in Telemedicine and Telecare facilities to support island communities and that the strategy is awaiting approval pending the appointment of a national director of ICT for the HSE. As provision of telemedicine and telecare facilities to remote island communities and to medical practitioners is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for a direct reply to the Deputy