Politicians whose blood pressures have gone sky high following recent tribunal revelations are soon to be given the chance to see if their hearts can withstand any more scandal.
All TDs and senators were yesterday issued with a circular advising them that cardiac and cholesterol screening will be available in the Dail at the end of the month.
The test will identify those politicians at risk of heart disease and the results will be made available immediately. A written report will be given to each person screened and in the case of abnormal readings a copy will be sent to a doctor nominated by the individual.
Screening will be carried out in Kildare House by an independent medical screening company, Cardicheck, between February 21st and 25th. Each screening will take 20 to 25 minutes and will involve an electrocardiogram, cholesterol analysis, a blood pressure and weight check and "risk factor" analysis. Oh yes, counselling on diet and exercise will also be thrown in.
On this occasion, the State will paying the bill. The price of the service is £25 (which the circular states must be paid in cash or cheque, no credit card) and additional optional tests including liver function test, diabetes test and urinalysis will be available for an extra charge.
The last time our TDs and senators were given the opportunity for a health check in Leinster House was two years ago. "On that occasion there was a good take-up," a Dail source said yesterday.