Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 467: To ask the Minister for Health the policy on palliative care for children and young persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29664/11]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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'Palliative care for children with life-limiting conditions – A National Policy' was adopted as Government policy on 15 December 2009. This Policy aims to ensure that all children with life-limiting conditions will have the choice and opportunity to be cared for at home. Implementation of Phase 1 of the policy recommended the appointment of 1 Paediatric Palliative Care Consultant, and 8 Outreach Nurses nationally (2 per HSE region).

At present, the Consultant post and 2 of the Outreach Nursing posts have been filled. The Department will continue to liaise closely with the Health Service Executive to fill the outstanding nursing posts as quickly as possible.