Government’s Cardiovascular Policy and Stroke Care Implementation Plan

Order of Business 6th May, 2010

I again call for a debate on the Government’s cardiovascular policy and stroke care implementation plan. The journalist, Paddy Clancy, spoke on “Morning Ireland” of his good fortune and recovery after having a stroke. The Health Service Executive said 20% of patients could benefit from thrombolysis, a clot-busting treatment which can have miraculous effects in preventing death and disability from stroke. However, only 2% of patients receive it. Every 45 minutes one person suffers a stroke and it is the largest cause of acquired disability affecting up to 30,000 people.