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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 26 Apr 1934

Vol. 51 No. 18

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Schemes of Hospital Service.

asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will state whether he has sanctioned the adoption of schemes of hospital service, to be financed in whole or in part out of moneys under his control, in any counties without first having the advantage of the advice of the Hospitals Commission.

The reply is in the affirmative in regard to schemes submitted prior to the passing of the Hospitals Act, 1933. Applications for grants received since the Act came into operation have been referred to the Hospitals Commission, in accordance with the procedure required by Section 24 of the Act.

Arising out of the Parliamentary Secretary's reply, may I ask on what basis and on what advice these schemes were sanctioned prior to the establishment of the Hospitals Commission.

Prior to the establishment of the Hospitals Commission schemes were sanctioned on the advice of the Minister's technical advisers, his medical inspectors and engineering inspectors.

Has that advice been communicated in every case to the local authorities?

That advice is for the guidance of the Minister. The Minister finally determines what particular schemes shall operate in a county. It does not necessarily follow that the advice given him by his technical advisers should be conveyed to the local authorities concerned.

Does the Parliamentary Secretary not think it desirable that such advice should be conveyed?

Not at all.

Particularly where there is a considerable difference of opinion between the local authorities and others concerned.

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