Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Jun 2000

Vol. 522 No. 2

Written Answers. - Housing Aid for the Elderly.

Enda Kenny

Question:

238 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the current position regarding the provision of a welfare home for the aged in Ballinrobe, County Mayo; if a suitable site has been located in this regard; the priority status accorded to this proposal by the Western Health Board; the finance available in 2000; and if he will make a statement on commencement of the home. [18216/00]

Enda Kenny

Question:

239 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people over 65 years of age in Ballinrobe, County Mayo, estimated as being in need of welfare home assistance either as full-time residents or as day involved patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18217/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 238 and 239 together.

As the Deputy is aware, the development of health services for older people in County Mayo is a matter for the Western Health Board. The question of proceeding with development of a community nursing unit in Ballinrobe will depend on the priority attached to the scheme by the boardvis-à-vis its other capital proposals in the context of funding available under the national development plan.

The board has indicated that, according to the 1996 census of population, there were 1,805 people over 65 years residing in the Ballinrobe area and that there are six older people from the area on the waiting list for admission to residential care. The board further reports that it does not have information on the number of older people who would avail of a day care service if it was available in the area.