All-Island Hospital for Cardiology Assessment for Ireland

The Ministers of Health in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland have announced that they intend to carry out an independent assessment of the current and future needs for cardiology and cardiac surgery across the Island of Ireland. A team of international independent experts will assess hospital services on both sides of the boarder and outline the options open to the Island which will meet the needs of the population.

Both ministers recognises that the development and implementation of any safe and sustainable model of care requires careful planning and effective engagement with all stakeholders including family representatives and professionals.

The report is due for completion in June 2014 and Hospitals in the republic will continue to work with their colleges in Belfast to provide and develop support to the services in Northern Ireland.

Dr. John Mayer of Boston Children's Hospital has been announced as the chair of the team of experts heading up the assessment. It is hoped that recommendations will be forwarded to both ministers in six months time.

Minister Reilly said “This assessment is intended to lead to the establishment of an integrated service for cardiology and congenital cardiac surgery for all the children of this island, based on international best practice. I am very pleased that such an eminent group of clinicians have agreed to dedicate so much of their time over the next few months to help us achieve this goal of an effective integrated service which will be so important to the children of this island and their families.”

Minister Poots said “I believe that the assessment by this external team of experts will bring international best practice and fresh thinking to bear on this challenging issue. I am pleased that they have accepted this assignment and look forward to receiving their advice. I want to thank health service management and clinicians in the Republic of Ireland for engaging with their colleagues in Belfast to provide and develop support to the services in Northern Ireland. My key priority throughout this process has been, and remains, to ensure the delivery of a safe and sustainable service for these vulnerable children.”