Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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158. To ask the Minister for Health the number of patients waiting for spinal surgery at Cappagh Hospital, Dublin 11; the measures being taken to combat the waiting time at the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8489/15]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and my officials will follow the matter up with them.

Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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159. To ask the Minister for Health when a child (details supplied) in County Limerick will be provided with a date for spinal surgery at Our Lady's Children's Hospital Crumlin, Dublin 12. [8491/15]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Spinal conditions, including scoliosis, in children and young people are predominantly managed at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin (OLCHC). It is acknowledged by all that waiting times for surgery are unacceptable and the HSE, Children's Hospital Group and OLCHC are actively working to address them as quickly as possible and exploring all short, medium- and long-term options to increase capacity. I am pleased to say that funding has been allocated in the 2015 Service Plan to facilitate the appointment of an orthopaedic surgeon, anaesthetist and support staff to maximise utilisation of available theatre sessions in OLCHC.

In relation to the particular patient query raised by you, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and my officials will follow the matter up with them.