Last night, I received a devastating response to a Topic Issue matter I raised about the closure of the catheterisation laboratory, cath lab, at Sligo University Hospital. There were no new proposals offered; just excuses. I was told about the existing link with University Hospital Galway but the recent national heart attack audit confirmed that the average travel time between the two hospitals is three hours, which is double the maximum recommended time of 90 minutes.

There are six specialist heart units in Ireland. There are two in Dublin and one in each of Waterford, Cork, Limerick and Galway. There is nothing north of Dublin and Galway. Why are heart patients in the north west being discriminated against? Will the Minister confirm whether the national review of the specialist cardiac services will include the provision of these services in Sligo?

I thank Deputy Harkin for raising the matter of the mobile cath lab at Sligo University Hospital. As the Deputy knows, it is operated by a private company. The company concerned has advised it is to cease its provision of mobile cath lab services at Sligo University Hospital, and other hospitals in the Irish market, at the end of June. As a result, the Saolta University Health Care Group is working with hospital management on contingency measures to ensure adequate services are provided to patients. The HSE has advised that all options have been explored in relation to the continued provision of cath lab services in Sligo University Hospital after the cessation by the current service provider later this month. I will bring the points the Deputy has raised directly to the Minister for Health.

The Minister for Health has just left the Chamber.

I guarantee the Deputy I will do that. I know this is a serious matter for her constituents and for Sligo University Hospital. I will ask the Minister to respond directly to the Deputy on this serious issue to see what else the HSE can do to ensure the provision of services continues.