asked the Minister for Health what changes have taken place in each health authority area in the number of beds specially designated for children since May 1967; and what steps will be taken to make additional beds for children available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hospital Beds for Children.
80.
I have not available to me precise information about changes which may have taken place in each health authority area. During the period referred to there may have been minor changes, of which my Department is unaware, in the children's accommodation in some hospitals. The main changes since May, 1967 were as follows: (a) A paediatric unit containing 40 beds has been opened at St. Camillus Hospital, Limerick. It is associated with the paediatric unit of the Limerick Regional General Hospital. (b) Twelve additional children's beds and two cots have been provided at the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin. (c) An additional five beds have been provided at Our Lady's hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin.
The question of children's bed requirements generally will be considered in the light of the recommendations concerning the future development of the general hospital services which I received last week from the Consultative Council on General Hospital Services.