Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 282: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the average waiting time for an appointment in each speciality in each acute hospital; the corresponding figure for outpatient appointments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27845/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The management of waiting lists generally is a matter for the HSE and the individual hospitals concerned. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the Executive for direct reply.

Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 284: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the status of the promised facility for cystic fibrosis sufferers at St. Vincent's Hospital, Dublin; if building has commenced; the expected completion date; the estimated opening time; the number of rooms provided for isolation purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27847/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The next stage in the development of St. Vincent's Hospital will involve the building of a new ward block to replace existing accommodation. The new facility will include accommodation for cystic fibrosis patients with appropriate isolation facilities for the treatment of their condition. All of the rooms will be single, en-suite, significantly enhancing the hospital's capacity to provide appropriate isolation facilities for patients.

Clinical and infrastructural needs at St. Vincent's will determine the configuration of beds across various specialties. There has been no upper limit placed by the hospital or the HSE on the allocation of beds to a particular specialty.

I am anxious to ensure that the project is delivered without delay. The HSE, in partnership with St. Vincent's Hospital, have structured the tender for this development in such a way that payments for the works can be deferred towards the end of the construction period. Tenders for this development will be issued shortly, which should result in the signing of a contract before the end of the year. It is intended that the construction, equipping and commissioning of this block will be completed as early as possible in 2011.