asked the Minister for Health what steps he has taken in regard to the erection of the Cork Regional Hospital since he addressed the Cork Health Authority on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork Regional Hospital.
31.
Mr. Barrett
Mr. O'Malley
As the Deputy is aware, it is proposed to hold an international architectural competition for a suitable design for the new Regional Hospital, based on the most modern planning concepts as befits a major project of this kind. As already announced, also, a new dental hospital is to be erected on an adjoining site in association with the general hospital, and it has, therefore, been necessary for me to consult the Minister for Education on this aspect of the project, for which he is primarily responsible. These consultations have now reached an advanced stage, and I hope, very soon, to be in a position to establish the body, to whom the planning and erection of the two hospitals will be entrusted.
Meanwhile, steps have been taken for the compilation of the basic technical data which will be of use in connection with the organising of the architectural competition, and the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland has been consulted in regard to the general conditions to apply to the competition.
Mr. Barrett
Could the Minister tell the House when the competition will take place and when it is likely any steps will be taken towards the erection of the Regional Hospital, about which the Minister was so enthusiastic when he addressed the Cork Health Authority?
Mr. O'Malley
It was not a question of being enthusiastic. I was just giving the facts and I think I pointed out on that occasion——
Wishful thinking!
Mr. O'Malley
It is not wishful thinking. These are facts.
Mr. Barrett
The Minister pointed out this was to be a wonderful thing, a showplace for all Europe. Could the Minister tell the House when it is likely any concrete steps will be taken towards the erection of the hospital?
Mr. O'Malley
I pointed out on the occasion in question that it was not an immediate thing.
Mr. Barrett
The Minister did no such thing and the Minister knows that as well as I do.
I am afraid we will have to get the Sunday Independent after the Minister.
Mr. Barrett
Would the Minister tell the House in what terms he indicated to the Cork Health Authority that the Cork Regional Hospital was not an immediate project which would draw the admiration not alone of this nation but of all nations?
Mr. O'Malley
I think the Deputy is confused. How could a £5 million hospital be built immediately?
Mr. Barrett
The Minister did it in my presence.
Immediately after the Shannon is drained. Priorities have to be established.
Mr. O'Malley
The Sunday Independent has already dropped 25,000 in circulation and, if it goes on, it will drop further.