asked the Minister for Health if, in view of the number of T.B. patients awaiting treatment in County Mayo, he will proceed to take over Belleek Manor, Ballina, to accommodate these people.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Treatment of T.B. Patients.
asked the Minister for Health if he considers the Kilworth Camp, County Cork, as being suitable for the establishment of a T.B. hospital to serve cases from the adjoining counties; and if he will take steps to utilise the camp for this purpose.
I propose, with your permission, a Chinn Chomhairle, to deal with Questions Nos. 31 and 32 together.
The acquisition of existing institutions for conversion into tuberculosis hospitals is one for the appropriate health authorities in the first instance. I am prepared to consider favourably any suitable proposals submitted to me in this connection.
With regard to bed accommodation for tuberculous patients in County Mayo, it is anticipated that the requirements of the county will be met by the existing sanatorium at Creagh and Castlerea Mental Hospital which has been acquired for temporary use as a tuberculosis hospital. In the circumstances I would not be in favour of the acquisition of Belleek Manor for the purpose.
I do not consider that Kilworth Camp would be suitable for conversion into a tuberculosis hospital and, in any event, it is essentially required by the Defence Forces for training purposes.