asked the Minister for Health if his attention had been drawn to the general demand in Waterford, including that made by the Waterford branch of the Labour Party, for the construction of a completely new hospital according to the original plan, and whether he is aware that money spent in patching up the old buildings would be a waste of public money; and, if so, what steps he intends taking to have a new hospital built.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Waterford Hospital Plans.
The position regarding hospital accommodation in Waterford generally was recently discussed with a deputation from the Waterford Board of Public Assistance which is directly concerned with the provision of general hospital accommodation in Waterford City. It was explained to the deputation that in view of the need for making rapid progress with a limited programme of hospital building, including only works of the greatest urgency, many desirable projects such as the provision of a new general hospital for Waterford had to be deferred. This view had already been conveyed to the local authority in July, 1948, when the short-term programme for hospital building was first drawn up. The deputation was, however, informed that the improvement of the existing county hospital should be proceeded with.
I am advised that the rehabilitation of the county hospital and the provision there of modern facilities which are urgently needed is a sound and economical proposition.
May I ask the Minister whether he has postponed indefinitely the proposals originated by the former Government to build a new hospital for the City and County of Waterford?
I would point out that the proposals are postponed pending the completion of very much more urgent works throughout the country. We require to complete them. As soon as these are completed, I feel that we can proceed with the completion of the new building in Waterford.
And the Waterford people can die.
There is less danger of them dying now than when you were in power.