Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 235: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if it is intended that the accident and emergency units at South Infirmary-Victoria University Hospital and Mercy University Hospital, Cork are to be closed or downgraded to minor injury units; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5883/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Question 236: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on correspondence (details supplied); the reason the accident and emergency department of Cork University Hospital can not accept payment by credit card, thereby eliminating unnecessary mailing and billing costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5890/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I understand that a number of hospitals have the facility to accept credit card payments in their Emergency Departments. The HSE is exploring the use of 24 hour banking services to facilitate ease of payment for all hospitals. I would support the introduction of improved payment methods for patients and the reduction of associated costs.

My Department has asked the HSE to respond more fully to the Deputy with regard to the issue raised.