385. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Health if she is aware of delays in accessing first antenatal appointments at University Hospital Galway, with women now reportedly waiting until 16–17 weeks gestation rather than the standard 12-week timeframe; the reasons for these delays; the risks posed to maternal and foetal health, particularly for high-risk pregnancies; and the steps she is taking to ensure timely and safe antenatal care for women across the UHG catchment area. [33109/26]

As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.