Cystic fibrosis protestors demonstrate outside Dáil

A demonstration has been taking place outside the Dáil today to protest against the delay in the provision of a specialised hospital unit for cystic fibrosis sufferers.

The HSE confirmed this week that it would not be honouring its promise to provide the facility at St Vincent's Hospital in Dublin by 2010.

It said funding would not be made available until 2011 at the earliest.

Health Minister Mary Harney subsequently suggested that private investors might fund the unit.

However, the Cystic Fibrosis Association says offers of private funding were turned down by the HSE and the Department of Health last year.

Speaking in the Dáil this morning, the Tánaiste, Mary Coughlan, said Health Minister Mary Harney was "looking at innovative ways in which we can see the delivery of this very valuable project".