Written Answers Nos. 126-150
126. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Health to expand cancer screening services in Ireland by introducing multigene next generation sequencing to allow for earlier diagnosis and better treatment outcomes for citizens; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17626/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am committed to supporting our population screening programmes, which are a valuable part of our health service, enabling early treatment and care for many people, and improving the overall health of our population.
I would note that consideration of any proposed changes to Ireland’s screening programmes will be facilitated through established, evidence-driven protocols. The National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC) is the independent expert group that provides advice to myself as Minister for Health. The rigorous processes utilised by NSAC are critical to ensure that our screening programmes are effective, quality assured and operating to safe standards.
NSAC considers and assesses the evidence in a robust and transparent manner, and against internationally accepted criteria. It is important that we have rigorous processes in place to ensure our screening programmes are effective, quality assured and operating to safe standards, and that the benefits of screening outweigh the harms.
NSAC holds annual Calls for Submissions, which invite all stakeholders, including members of the public, HSE and other medical professionals, to proposals changes to Ireland’s screening programmes. Any proposals received will be carefully considered by the Committee at its meetings.
The date for the 2026 Call for Submissions has not been determined but is expected to be announced in the second half of the year. All prospective applicants are encouraged to check the NSAC Work Programme, which lists submissions received through previous Calls. Further information about NSAC can be found on its website at www.nsacommittee.gov.ie
In terms of multi-gene sequencing, the national Hereditary Cancer Model of Care (2023) highlights the need to improve access to genetic testing for patients with cancer and their relatives. Mainstreamed cancer genetic testing is being implemented to this effect, bringing the testing for common scenarios into the care given by the patient’s oncology team.
It should be emphasised that screening programmes are for people without symptoms. If anyone becomes aware of symptoms, or if they have concerns or worries, they should contact a medical professional immediately.
128. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Health if the HSE will meet its target of placement beds as outlined in the HSE Disability Action Plan (2024-2026); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17617/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis Parliamentary Question should be directed to the Minister for Disability, Children and Equality.
129. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health following the latest funding announcement in the HSE Capital Plan 2026, when the next stage of the Finglas primary care centre is expected to progress; if the new funding will in any way expedite the delivery of the centre; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17516/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Health Service Executive is responsible for the delivery of public healthcare infrastructure projects, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly in relation to this matter.
130. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Health to provide an update on her considerations of the 30 September 2025 HIQA report on Emergency Healthcare in the Midwest; when a financial commitment in support of the implementation of the three HIQA recommendations will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17544/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn December 16th 2025, the Government approved a decision to progress with a blend of the proposed HIQA options necessary to respond to the challenges in the Mid West.This will represent a significant and long-term service and capital development.
In order to progress Option B, I have mandated the HSE to secure an available, appropriate site adjacent to the Dooradoyle campus. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time due to the potential for an adverse effect on confidential contractual negotiations that the HSE may have to enter into.
A mechanism is being established to strategically assess and progress all three Options in order to develop a comprehensive plan for incremental reconfiguration and investment in healthcare services in the Mid West region.
I would like to assure the Deputy that my Department continues to work closely with the HSE to ensure that the UHL is fully supported and that the necessary improvements to address capacity in the region are actioned in a timely manner
131. Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan asked the Minister for Health the concerns held by her Department over the use of oestradiol in food production; the risks it poses to public health; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17570/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraOestradiol is a naturally occurring hormone found in many species, including humans and most food-producing animals. It plays an important role in regulating reproductive functions, particularly in females. As a result, foods derived from animals, especially adult females, such as meat, milk, or eggs may naturally contain small amounts of oestradiol.
In addition to these natural sources, synthetic oestradiol is manufactured as a pharmaceutical product for use in animals. EU legislation first prohibited the use of oestradiol for growth promotion in 1981 as a precautionary measure. This restriction was subsequently confirmed and strengthened through a series of EU Directives. Following scientific assessments, the EU rules were further tightened and since 2008, all use of oestradiol in food-producing animals has been completely prohibited. Ireland implements and enforces these rules, as do all other EU Member States. These rules apply to all food sold in the EU, including imported food products.
The prohibition of oestradiol is based on EU scientific risk assessments. In opinions published in 1999, 2000, and 2002, the Scientific Committee on Veterinary Measures relating to Public Health (SCVPH) one of the precursors to EFSA, concluded that the risks associated with all assessed hormones, including oestradiol could not be quantified. This meant that no acceptable daily intake could be established.
However, it is important to note that this classification relates primarily to long-term biological activity. The concern arises from ongoing or repeated exposure, where continuous hormonal stimulation may alter gene expression, encourage cell proliferation, and potentially lead to mutations. A single or isolated ingestion of meat containing oestradiol residues is very unlikely to cause measurable or immediate harm to health. The EU rules on oestradiol aim to prevent repeat exposure, not because a single exposure/meal poses a significant danger, but because long-term safety cannot be guaranteed if products with oestradiol are entering the food chain.
All food placed on the EU market must be produced without any non-natural administration of oestradiol. Ireland’s Border Control Posts, operated by the HSE’s National Environmental Health Service and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, function effectively to control imports of food from third countries. Furthermore, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI), which has overall responsibility for the enforcement of food law, carries out inspections and audits through its official agencies to ensure compliance with food safety legislation, thus minimising risk to public health. Where non-compliances are identified, appropriate enforcement and corrective actions are taken in accordance with food law.
132. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Minister for Health an bhfuil aon phleananna aici árasáin a thógáil ar shuíomhanna atá ag FSS nó ag ospidéil i mBaile Átha Cliath 8, 10, agus 12 chun cuidiú le dochtúirí, altraí agus oibrithe eile a mhealladh chuig na hospidéil [16468/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIs é croíshainchúram FSS seirbhísí cúraim sláinte poiblí a sholáthar agus an bonneagar is gá chun na seirbhísí sin a chur ar fáil.
Déanann FSS bainistiú gníomhach ar eastát náisiúnta na sláinte, lena n-áirítear diúscairt na réadmhaoine sin a shainaithnítear mar shócmhainní barrachais.
Tá eastát náisiúnta na sláinte éagsúil agus casta, ó ionaid bheaga sláinte i gceantair thuaithe go hospidéil ghéarmhíochaine an-mhóra. Tá éagsúlacht mhór aoise sna foirgnimh seo, ó fhoirgnimh a tógadh roimh an 18ú haois go saoráidí nua-aimseartha a tógadh go sainchuspóireach.
Comhlíonann FSS a oibleagáidí reachtúla agus ceanglaítear air sócmhainní barrachais a thairiscint ar dtús don Ghníomhaireacht Forbartha Talún (GFT) agus ina dhiaidh sin do pháirtithe leasmhara Stáit eile (lena n-áirítear údaráis áitiúla) faoi Chiorcláin na Roinne Caiteachais Phoiblí agus Athchóirithe 11/15 Prótacail maidir le hAistriú agus Comhroinnt Sócmhainní Maoine Stáit agus 17/16 Beartas maidir le Fáil ar Mhaoin agus maidir le Diúscairt Maoine Barrachais.
Ní mór do FSS an próiseas oifigiúil a leanúint maidir le diúscairt réadmhaoine ag comhlachtaí agus ag gníomhaireachtaí Stáit. Nuair a fhágtar réadmhaoin de chuid FSS folamh ag seirbhís, is gá a chinneadh an bhfuil sí barrachas ar riachtanais agus cinneadh a dhéanamh an gcoinneofar an réadmhaoin laistigh d’eastát cúram sláinte. Má tá an réadmhaoin le diúscairt, leagtar amach ordlathas an phróisis mar seo a leanas:
• An réadmhaoin a thairiscint don GFT trí fhógra i scríbhinn.
• Mura roghnaíonn an GFT an réadmhaoin a ghlacadh, faoi Chiorcláin RCPA 11/2015 agus 17/2016 ní mór do FSS ansin an réadmhaoin a thairiscint do pháirtithe leasmhara Stáit eile trí Chlár Maoine an Stáit.
• Mura nglacann aon pháirtí leasmhar Stáit eile leis an réadmhaoin, cuirfidh FSS an réadmhaoin ar díol ar an margadh oscailte ansin.
Má chinntear go bhfuil réadmhaoin faoi úinéireacht FSS ina barrachas ar riachtanais chúram sláinte poiblí, déanfar í a dhiúscairt de réir an phróisis thuas.
Ba cheart fiosruithe maidir le tógáil tithíochta ag Comhlachtaí Stáit, lena n-áirítear tithíocht d’oibrithe riachtanacha, a chur chuig an Roinn Tithíochta, Rialtais Áitiúil agus Oidhreachta ar an gcéad dul síos.
Ba mhaith liom a dheimhniú don Teachta go leanfaidh mo Roinn agus FSS de bheith ag obair le príomhpháirtithe leasmhara chun an úsáid is oiriúnaí agus is inbhuanaithe a chinneadh d’ithreacha faoi úinéireacht FSS, agus tosaíochtaí cúraim sláinte poiblí agus cuspóirí Housing for All á gcothromú.
133. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health to provide a detailed report on the €7 million loss incurred by the HSE in dealings with a medical devices company for respiratory sensors between 2021 and 2024; if 91,000 to 132,000 sensors paid for were never received; the reason a double payment of €723,000 was authorised by separate HSE sections; the current status of the disciplinary or "fact-finding" process for the personnel involved, given that many have since left the organisation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17790/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this is a HSE issue, this is for HSE to reply directly.
134. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health her plans to expand the availability of linear accelerators; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17301/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.
135. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken by her Department increase the number of child psychologists in primary care in order to ensure adequate service provision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17869/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
136. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the up-to-date position on progressing a day care centre (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17678/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is a key priority for the Government to increase access to services that help older people to remain independent and live in their own homes with dignity and independence for as long as possible.
Alongside home support, Meals on Wheels and similar services, day centres are an essential support for older people, particularly in rural communities. They provide invaluable assistance, minor treatments, advice and social interaction for older people, who may, for any number of reasons, be experiencing isolation and loneliness.
The HSE has advised that it is intending to use part of the revamped Health Centre building at Macroom Hospital to establish a day centre for older people from Macroom and the surrounding areas.
This project is at an early stage, and there is work underway to develop a proposal for it to be included on the Capital Plan. Once the capital funding allocation is in place, the HSE will progress the planning for this project to the tender phase. On completion of the tender process, the HSE will be able to provide estimated timelines for the completion of this day centre for Macroom.
The development of this day centre in Macroom will add to, and compliment the network of social support services that are already available for older people in the Macroom area and is expected to be a very welcome addition to the range of health services in the area.
137. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Health the number of approved whole-time equivalent posts in south Tipperary and the south-east community healthcare area for professions (details supplied); the number of those posts currently filled and the number vacant, by grade; the duration for which each vacancy has remained unfilled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17512/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy as soon as possible.
138. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Health her plans to invest in adult community mental health services in County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16264/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
139. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the steps she is taking to end reliance on unregistered consultants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17633/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
140. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health to report on her efforts to improve medical training to counter gender bias in the medical profession; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17501/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Medical Council is the regulator of doctors in Ireland and has a number of statutory functions, including setting and monitoring the standards for medical education and training in Ireland across undergraduate, intern, and postgraduate stages. All medical schools in Ireland and their medical degree courses are accredited and monitored by the Medical Council.
As part of its monitoring role, the Council conducts inspections of clinical training sites to assess compliance with its standards and guidelines for clinical training and experience. Part of the assessment process involves evaluating compliance with the World Federation of Medical Education standards on gender bias and gender-based violence within the broader framework of the learning environment, student safety, and equity.
Where necessary, the Medical Council can issue recommendations to site management on areas needing improvement. It can also remove approval from a training site where it determines that the Council’s guidelines or standards are not being adhered to.
Separately, my Department has worked with the Irish College of General Practitioners to improve gender sensitivity among both qualified GPs and GPs in training. The Women’s Health Fund has invested in the development and dissemination of education and training materials by the ICGP. In addition, the ICGP’s Women’s Health Programme provides high quality educational opportunities in women's health topics for GPs and other healthcare professionals and appointed its first ever Clinical Lead in Women’s Health in 2022.
141. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Health when the new primary care centre in Nenagh will be opened by the HSE; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17699/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Health Service Executive (HSE) holds responsibility for the provision, along with the maintenance and operation of Primary Care Centres, I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
142. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Health for a breakdown of funding for north Tipperary under the recently announced HSE capital plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17700/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.
143. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Health for an update on a project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17850/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraDeputy, this PQ should be directed to my colleague in the Department of Children, Disability and Equality as the topic raised is under their remit.
144. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health the current status of the proposed integrated homeless health hub for Cork city; the progress toward the project intended in 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17537/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra572. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 1079 of 24 February 2026, if funding for the Integrated Homeless Services Hub in Cork city has been approved; if so, the amount allocated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18061/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Question No 144 and Question No 572 together.
The integrated inclusion health hub in Cork City is a joint initiative between HSE South West and Cork City Council aimed at addressing the health and social needs of the growing number of people who are homelessness in Cork.
The HSE Capital Plan 2026 provides €1.3 billion for healthcare building and equipment that will deliver benefits all over the country. This significant investment in health infrastructure underlines the Government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare in an equitable way to all who need it.
The plan commits to expand facilities for vulnerable and marginalised groups. It contains a commitment to 'progress completion of the Integrated Homeless Services Hub in Cork City in conjunction with Cork City Council'. HSE Estates has published an e-tender for an expression of interest from potential accommodation providers as the first step in that process. HSE Estates will liaise with the Department of Health as the project develops.
I am strongly committed to strengthening integrated care pathways to meet the complex health needs of people who are homeless in Cork and on a nationwide basis.
145. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Health if she will provide clarity on the processes that are under way to identify a potential site for the delivery of the so-called ‘Plan B’ (new hospital building) for the University of Limerick Hospital Group; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17296/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn December 2025, Government gave its approval to progress with a blend of the proposed HIQA options necessary to respond to the challenges in the Mid West, to inform investment and to provide a short-, medium- and long-term view to how we plan for, and deliver, healthcare services for the people of the region.
The Minister will progress through all three options, A, B and C contained in the HIQA report, including development of a strategic plan to invest in services.
Option B recommends the extension of the UHL hospital campus to comprise the existing Dooradoyle site and another site, in proximity to UHL. The Minister has mandated the HSE to secure an available, appropriate adjacent site to the Dooradoyle campus. This is being progressed in line with HSE governance for property acquisitions in the usual way.
It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time due to the potential for an adverse effect on confidential and contractual negotiations that the HSE may have to enter into.
