Written question asked by Lady Hermon (Ulster Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 16 June 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 29 June 2004. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Tuesday, 29 June 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what plans he has to establish a specialist clinic for myalgic encephalomyelitis sufferers in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to establish a specialist clinic for myalgic encephalomyelitis sufferers in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement. [179732] Angela Smith: There are no plans at present to establish a specialist clinic for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) sufferers in Northern Ireland. Clinicians and patients alike often face difficulties as a result of the lack of specific disease markers for ME and a clear understanding of the cause and disease process. The focus on treatment here is centred therefore on close co-operation between patients, carers and the relevant health and social-care professionals, which is essential for ensuring that sufferers obtain the most suitable treatment for their particular needs. In addition, Belfast City hospital continues to provide a Chronic Fatigue Service, which is delivered by a multi- disciplinary team that adopts a holistic approach to the treatment of patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ ME.

Secondary information