50 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to promote the establishment of more centres of excellence in medicine in Irish hospitals and medical schools. [1515/96]

Limerick East): The Department of Health promotes the pursuit of excellence on the part of all health care providers. This approach has been given renewed emphasis in the implementation of the health strategy Shaping a Healthier Future. However, it is recognised that, in certain areas of medicine, services need to be organised in a particular manner if excellence is to be guaranteed. The specialised skills of the staff required and the need for sophisticated equipment dictate that some services be concentrated in a small number of centres. At these locations patients are assured of having staff with the necessary skills and experience available, as well as the appropriate equipment. Equally the staff at the centres are guaranteed a sufficient throughput of patients to maintain their levels of skill and expertise. The organisation and distribution of these centres is kept under constant review by my Department and Comhairle na nOspidéal.