Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 March 2005
81 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of long stay public beds available throughout the country on a county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9429/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the number of public beds. Accordingly, my Department has requested the national director of primary, community and continuing care of the Health Service Executive to investigate the matter raised and to reply direct to the Deputy.
