Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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232. To ask the Minister for Health the progress made on the introduction of a bilateral cochlear implant programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19198/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Since the national cochlear implant programme commenced seventeen years ago, over 700 patients have received cochlear implants. I am advised that, in 2012, ninety cochlear implants were carried out with 42 children receiving implants and 48 adults. In addition to providing the surgical services, the programme provides a comprehensive assessment service to potential candidates and a rehabilitative service to those actually implanted.

In 2009 a National Review of Audiology Services was carried out by the HSE, to examine the services provided to children and adults nationwide, and to formulate a national plan for the services. The report of the National Audiology Review Group, published by the HSE in 2011, provides the blueprint for the planning, development and delivery of HSE audiology services, from new-born screening to assessment and management of adults and children with hearing problems, including cochlear implantation. Two of the main recommendations in the report include the national rollout of a universal new-born hearing screening programme and the establishment of a bone anchored hearing aid programme. The report also included a recommendation that continued ring-fenced financial support be provided for the cochlear implant programme but at levels which allow for simultaneous bilateral implantation for children.

The HSE is working closely with Beaumont Hospital to progress plans for both simultaneous and sequential bilateral implantation. The development of the service will require additional resources for Beaumont and these plans will be progressed through the HSE 2014 Estimates process.

Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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233. To ask the Minister for Health if he has scheduled a meeting with representatives of the Happy New Ear campaign; when this meeting will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19199/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Unfortunately due to a very busy schedule of Government and Departmental business, I regret that I was not in a position to accede to this organisation's recent request for a meeting. However the Minister of State, Ms Kathleen Lynch TD, has indicated that she will meet with Happy New Ear and the group will be contacted shortly in this regard.