asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will state what progress, if any, has been made to increase the accommodation for tuberculosis sufferers requiring sanatorium treatment, and if he is aware of the present large waiting list for beds.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Accommodation for Tuberculosis Patients.
Mr. A. Byrne
Works in progress and nearing completion at Peamount Sanatorium and Teach Ultain will provide about 50 extra beds. For primary tuberculosis, 25 additional beds in the Dublin area have been approved. Works completed in Cavan will provide about 30 additional beds, and works completed in Sligo about 13 additional beds. In Galway works which are in progress, but not likely to be completed for some time, will provide 80 additional beds in that area. The proposed extension at Rialto Hospital, Dublin, will provide about 60 additional beds. Other proposals under consideration should result in a further 40 beds for the Dublin area. There are also further extensions contemplated at Peamount Sanatorium, but I am not in a position to give any definite particulars thereof at present. The Deputy may rest assured that everything possible is being done to extend bed accommodation to provide for the numbers awaiting treatment.
Mr. A. Byrne
Will the Parliamentary Secretary say whether there is any unnecessary hold-up in the way of sanction of the plans for Peamount and will he speed up the Peamount plans by giving sanction?
There is no avoidable delay in connection with the provision of beds in any area.
Mr. A. Byrne
Will the Parliamentary Secretary make further inquiries about Peamount?
I am fully aware of the position.
Mr. A. Byrne
But there is some delay.
There is no avoidable delay.