asked the Minister for Health if he received several months ago five urgent proposals from Laois County Council for the improvement of the county hospital, Portlaoise; if he will give his sanction to these proposals; and the cause of the delay in giving this sanction.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Laois Hospital Improvement.
21.
I have received the proposals referred to by the Deputy and I hope to give an early decision as to which of them might be proceeded with. What has complicated their clearance is the consideration being given to necessary adjustments in our hospital organisation generally so as to improve the service. As I announced some days ago, I have set up an expert body to advise me in this regard. It would clearly be unwise to carry out substantial works of a kind which, even before they are completed, might be shown to be in conflict with the best organisation of the service.