andMr. P. Browne asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the erection of the new 100-bed unit at Dungarvan, County Waterford; and if the health authority has indicated that it will contribute £30,000 towards the cost of this project.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Waterford Health Authority Proposals.
10.
Planning of the new 100-bed unit at St. Joseph's Hospital, Dungarvan, is at present in progress. Working drawings are being prepared by the architect.
The Waterford Health Authority has notified my Department that it has allocated a sum of £30,000 derived from the sale of lands towards the cost of the scheme. This would represent perhaps about one-tenth of the estimated overall cost.
11.
andMr. P. Browne asked the Minister for Health if, in view of the decision of Waterford Health Authority not to accept his proposals regarding the maternity unit at the district hospital, Dungarvan, he will reconsider his decision in the matter.
I have examined this question in considerable detail and I am satisfied that the suggestions which I have made to the Waterford Health Authority represent the best possible solution to the problem. However, as and from 1st April, responsibility for the hospital facilities to be provided at Dungarvan will be assumed by the South-Eastern Health Board. I expect that the health board will wish to consider this matter and I intend to await their views before taking any further action.
12.
andMr. P. Browne asked the Minister for Health if he is now in a position to give sanction to the proposals of Waterford Health Authority for the erection of a health clinic at Newgate Street, Waterford.
Approval in principle has been accorded to negotiations taking place with one of the firms which submitted tenders for the erection of the health clinic but the entering into of a firm contract cannot be approved until certain further technical documentation has been prepared and agreed as to content and price. The health authority has been informed that the negotiation of the details may now proceed.