271 Ms Fox asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if funding will remain in place to help with cochlear implant operations for the many persons who opt for this procedure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25141/04]

The national cochlear implant programme, based at Beaumont Hospital, is funded through the Eastern Regional Health Authority, which is charged with responsibility for commissioning health and personal social services on behalf of the population of the region, and also on behalf of those outside the region who are referred for specialist treatment. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the issue raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.