asked the Minister for Health if he will state the reasons for the delay in providing a new sanatorium for the treatment of tuberculosis cases in Cork City and County.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Treatment of Tuberculosis in County Cork.
asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the shortage of bed accommodation in existing institutions for the treatment of tuberculosis in Cork City and County; and what immediate steps he proposes to take in this matter.
I propose, with your permission, a Chinn Comhairle, to take questions 31 and 32 together.
I am aware of the shortage of accommodation for the reception and treatment of cases of tuberculosis in Cork City and County. In pursuance of the powers conferred on me by the Tuberculosis (Erection of Sanatoria) Act, 1945, a site for a regional sanatorium at Cork which will contain approximately 700 beds was acquired at Sarsfieldcourt, Glanmire, County Cork, on 20th February, 1947. The provision of this institution is a work of considerable magnitude involving the preparation of contract drawings for many separate buildings of various sizes together with specifications for the incidental, mechanical, electrical, medical, water supply, sewerage and other services. It will be appreciated, therefore, that some time must elapse before this institution will be available but every possible effort is being made to press forward the work.
I would point out, however, that the special measures authorised by the Act do not relieve the local authorities concerned, viz., Cork County Council and Cork Corporation, of their responsibility under the Tuberculosis (Prevention) Acts, to provide sufficient institutional accommodation to meet the requirements of their respective areas. I have recently approved of the provision of an additional 22 beds at Cork Sanatorium which is administered by a joint committee of these bodies. This accommodation will be available for patients at an early date and further extension of 20 beds is contemplated.