596. Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Health his plans to introduce a community-based children’s optometrists scheme in order to address the waiting lists that exist for children to receive eye examinations; his further plans to roll out the Sligo cataract scheme (details supplied) across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24348/18]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.