asked the Minister for Health if he is yet in a position to approve a recommendation from Dublin Health Authority to allow a capitation fee to be paid to Stewart's Hospital for daytime mentally retarded patients.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Stewart's Hospital Dublin.
15.
My Department is at present examining a proposal submitted by the Dublin Health Authority on the 18th November last for the payment of a capitation fee to Stewart's Hospital, Palmerstown, for the care of severely mentally handicapped children treated on a day basis. I hope to be in a position to convey my decision on this proposal in the very near future.
Does the Minister agree that the sum sought is very small and that it would be a pity not to agree to it because of the number of children seeking this service?
I quite agree that to push forward the establishment of day-centres for handicapped children would be of great advantage. It is better for these children who are able to go home at night and it is less expensive, as the Deputy said.
Is a capitation fee paid in respect of children in any other similar institutions?
There are, yes. It would take me some time to give the list of them.