Kevin O'Keeffe (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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302. To ask the Minister for Health if he will investigate the delays in relation to staffing at a hospital (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the delay in having all staff in place is resulting in a delay in the commencement of the new double kidney and pancreas transplant programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33319/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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An extensive programme of work has been undertaken in St Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH) to enable the transfer of the Pancreatic Transplant Programme from Beaumont Hospital. This work included:

- the development and implementation of a multi-disciplinary team approach:

- the recruitment of additional personnel including an additional transplant surgeon, an additional transplant fellow, two transplant co-ordinators, a clinical nurse manager and a clinical facilitator for transplant in theatre;

- engagement with external parties including establishing links with the Royal Infirmary Transplant Centre in Edinburgh; and

- nurse education and training.

The level of staffing required to undertake this work is in place. However, a delay in progressing nurse training has arisen due to an Industrial Relations issue. I am advised that SVUH and the INMO are continuing to engage in an effort to resolve this issue.

Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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303. To ask the Minister for Health if the vacancies in the south Leitrim early intervention team have been filled; and if not, when he expects to have the south Leitrim early intervention team fully staffed. [33320/16]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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304. To ask the Minister for Health if cover was provided earlier in 2016 while a person (details supplied) was on maternity leave. [33321/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.