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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 May 1956

Vol. 157 No. 1

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clifden Dispensary Residence.

asked the Minister for Health whether it is proposed to build a dispensary doctor's residence in Clifden; whether he is aware that the site chosen for it is too far removed from the district hospital to enable the doctor to answer promptly emergency calls from the hospital, and that there is available in the hospital grounds a site suitable for the purpose, and, if so, if he will make a statement in the matter.

The purchase of a site for the erection of a dispensary doctor's residence in Clifden was approved by my predecessor in November, 1952, and I understand that the local authority have received tenders for the erection of the house which are at present under examination by the council's architect. A site in the hospital grounds was originally proposed for the residence, but was considered unsuitable owing to the contours of the ground which would make building unduly expensive. The present site is approximately a mile from the district hospital and I do not consider that the doctor should have any difficulty in answering emergency calls from the hospital promptly.

Would the Minister have the matter looked into again, as I understand it would be the greatest possible convenience and enhance the service to the hospital, particularly at night, if the new residence could be located somewhat nearer to the hospital than the site now proposed? I should be glad if he would have the matter re-examined.

The decision to acquire the site was taken on 7th November, 1952. That is a considerable time ago and I think, following that decision, arrangements have already been made, but I will have the matter re-examined.

Has the long delay not created a doubt as to its suitability?

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