Challenges facing the HSE

Edited version of statements on HSE 16.6.10

I will make four brief points. First, the Minister mentioned the cardiovascular implementation plan, which is to be welcomed, but funding is the issue. She rightly pointed out that there were 12 stroke units, but some, including the Irish Heart Foundation, would say not all of these measures are up to international standards. Some 20% of people could benefit from thrombolysis, yet only 2% get it. The good news is that money up front in stroke prevention can prevent the outlay on nursing home care or hospital stays down the line. The emergence of a business plan that would allow the investment needed to improve the service should be possible.

Second, everyone appreciates the good work done by the hospice movement. The Irish Hospice Foundation insists on there being greater strategising in respect of end-of-life hospital care. When I recently attended a conference on this matter, everything from a hospital’s layout to the question of whether there was room for the soon-to-be-bereaved to meet the soon-to-be-deceased to discuss sensitive issues was raised. There is great potential for investment. A die with dignity programme has been proposed by the Irish Hospice Foundation and I hope it will be given a listening ear, as it could do so much to help people in difficult and trying situations.

Third, we have all heard from the Save St. Luke’s Hospital campaign today. Is this a done deal? The campaigners asked whether the projected increase in new cancer cases should lead to a questioning of the decision to close St. Luke’s Hospital and move to St. James’s Hospital. I would welcome the Minister’s opinion.

Fourth, legislation is expected on the delicate area of assisted human reproduction. I ask that we will have a unifying approach in this respect. I hope our approach will unite the community, given the potential of induced pluripotent stem cell research in particular. This is an area in which we could fight the way up the mountain together without dividing the community. I hope this consideration will be taken on board in the shaping of legislation. I thank the Minister. I also thank the Acting Chairman for her indulgence.