448. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Health to report on the engagements his Department has had with scoliosis advocacy groups (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38642/24]

Senior officials in my department have had continuous engagement with patient advocacy groups since September 2023 on foot of the publication of two reports into paediatric spinal services in Temple Street.

Prior to the establishment of the Paediatric Spinal Taskforce, I invited the advocacy groups to meet with me in February of this year to help inform the terms of reference for the Taskforce.

The National Patient Safety Office (NPSO) in my department continues to engage and communicate with patient advocates and associated groups on the work of the Taskforce and other aspects of Paediatric Spinal Services.