asked the Minister for Health if he will state the quantity and value of the drugs, dressings and hospital equipment, including X-ray equipment, now stored in the country and how far these stores have been distributed to the proper centres throughout the country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Stores of Hospital Requirements.
I am not aware of the extent and value of the drugs, dressings and hospital equipment now stored in the country. Local authorities and the authorities of voluntary hospitals have, however, been authorised to purchase substantial reserve stocks of drugs, medical and surgical dressings and other essential commodities. Steps have already been taken to acquire these reserve supplies, which will leave the hospitals with about one year's stock of drugs and dressings. The estimated cost to local authorities of building up these stocks is £300,000; the cost to voluntary hospitals, which is being met by special advances from the Hospitals Trust Fund, will be about £200,000.