asked the Minister for Health if any proposals have been formulated in his Department for taking over dispensary residences and vesting them in the health boards; and, if so, if he will give details.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Dispensary Residences.
8.
Under section 36 (1) of the Health Act, 1970, dispensary residences became vested in health boards on 1st April, 1971.
Is the Minister saying that dispensary residences became vested automatically under subsection (a) or had they to be designated under subsection (b)?
My information is that all were transferred under section 36 (1) of the Act.
May I point out to the Minister that the section deals specifically with property which had been exclusively used for health purposes, such as hospitals; it makes reference to other types of property such as dispensary residences but these can become the property of the health boards only when they are specifically designated by the local authority. Is the Minister aware that designations have been made?
I imagine they have, but the Deputy will have to ask a specific question, or I will communicate with him in writing, as to whether or not this actual designation operation has taken place. I am certain it has.
Would the Minister know if designation by a local authority is a reserved or an executive function?
That is a separate question.
I shall have to communicate with the Deputy about that.