New cataract unit will increase theatre capacity and reduce waiting times
The Dr Kathleen Lynn Cataract Unit at the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital (RVEEH) was officially opened today (Wednesday, 11 June) by Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD.
The theatre, which will greatly improve access to cataract surgery for patients across Ireland, is named in honour of Dr. Kathleen Lynn, a pioneering Irish physician, activist, and the first female doctor on the RVEEH’s staff in 1910.
The new facility, which includes the addition of a second theatre, will increase the number of cataract surgeries performed annually from 4,300 to 6,000. This will help the hospital meet the Sláintecare target of 50% of patients waiting less than 12 weeks for their procedure.
Speaking as she performed the official opening Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill T.D., said: “The Dr. Kathleen Lynn Cataract Unit reflects our healthcare goals: greater access, shorter waiting times, and clinical excellence. I am proud to open this cataract theatre today to support the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear in delivering vital services that swiftly enhance patients' quality of life.”
RVEEH treats more than 130,000 patients each year, with 81% receiving care as public patients. It has over 300 staff working across the Emergency Department, Operating Theatres, Outpatient Departments, the Macular Unit, and the Minor Procedures Unit. At the opening, Mr. James O’Donoghue, President of Council, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, said: “This new cataract unit exemplifies our hospital’s mission to lead in patient care, education, and innovation.”
Mr. Donal Brosnahan, Head Consultant Ophthalmologist, RVEEH, said: “We dedicate this unit to Dr. Kathleen Lynn, whose values of innovation, compassion, and justice continue to inspire us daily. The theatre will help us to meet rising demand while ensuring our patients continue to receive the highest standards of surgical excellence. It will also add to the clinical training we provide to our medical students”
Issued by HSE Dublin and South East Press and Media
Last updated on: 11 / 06 / 2025
