Tom Neville (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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297. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to address the issue raised in correspondence (details supplied) regarding paediatric rheumatology; his views on whether there is a need to have children with Down's syndrome screened for arthritis; and if the HSE will offer another doctor a contract in which they can continue to screen children for arthritis and hold follow-up clinics for rheumatology appointments and so on. [18996/18]

Tom Neville (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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300. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to provide funding for an additional rheumatology consultant at Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, to support the existing team and help alleviate the long waiting lists; and when a rheumatology consultant will be appointed. [19004/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 297 and 300 together.

I am aware that there are challenges in meeting the growing demand for paediatric rheumatology services, and that the Health Service Executive is working towards improving access to such services. Any consideration of further funding to support rheumatology service developments has to be considered in the context of service prioritisation and with regard to competing priorities for resources available as part of the 2019 Estimates process.

In relation to current paediatric rheumatology service provision, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to you directly as soon as possible.

Tom Neville (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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298. To ask the Minister for Health his views on whether children with Down's syndrome need to be screened from birth on an annual basis for arthritis in view of the incidence of the condition in children with the condition. [18998/18]

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.