asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware that Rosslare Harbour, County Wexford, with a population of 1,000, has only a rented room to serve as a dispensary, that no medical supplies or equipment are kept there, and that patients who require medicines, dressings, etc., must go four miles to Broadway dispensary to get them, that about a year ago he promised to provide a clinic as soon as possible, and if he can now state when it is proposed to proceed with the building of the clinic and whether he can make more satisfactory arrangements for the treatment of patients pending the building of this clinic.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rosslare Clinic.
I have long been aware that the present dispensary at Rosslare Harbour is most unsuitable. In a letter which issued from my Department on 15th June last, the attention of the local authority was drawn to the matter and it was suggested to them that they might consider the provision of a new health clinic. The letter outlined the accommodation which should be provided in such a clinic. On 8th April last, the local authority submitted a sketch plan which included all the accommodation which had been suggested. On the 11th May, they were informed that they might proceed with the erection of a health clinic in accordance with this plan, the work to be executed on the responsibility of the county manager without further reference of documents to the Department.
I am informed that there is no alternative accommodation available pending the building of the clinic. I am, however, prepared to consider any suggestions which may be put forward to provide more satisfactory interim arrangements.