Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 246: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if any contact or discussions have been held with the Northern Ireland Minister for Health, Social Services and Public Safety regarding the development of a national paediatric hospital on the Mater hospital site, Dublin 7, and the ambulatory service associated with the plans; the conclusions that were reached; and the future plans regarding the development of an all Ireland approach to paediatric care. [7757/10]

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

I have worked closely with my counterpart in Northern Ireland, Mr. Michael McGimpsey, MLA, to support North/South co-operation in health care. Towards this end, we jointly commissioned a study to develop a strategic framework for collaborative work in health and social care, and in planning and delivering services, as appropriate. The feasibility study was finalised in April 2009 and forms the basis for North/South co-operation in relation to health and personal social services.

There has been no specific discussion regarding the development of the National Paediatric Hospital in Dublin, but there have been welcome developments in particular areas of paediatric care. Last year I was very pleased to welcome the conclusion of a service level agreement for paediatric cardiac surgery involving Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin and Belfast City Hospital. The agreement supports the provision of paediatric congenital cardiac surgery for children in Northern Ireland.

The two Departments, North and South, will keep the scope for further collaboration under review, in the context of the feasibility study concluded last year.