asked the Minister for Health the number of mentally retarded children awaiting admission to hospitals in the Eastern Health Board region; and when it is hoped to provide sufficient places for them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mentally Retarded Children.
33.
The number of children in the Eastern Health Board region on waiting lists for admission to residential centres for the mentally handicapped is 202. There are schemes in progress and in planning for the provision of 1,500 additional places at the centres. When these schemes are completed in the course of the next few years the waiting period for the admission of children to the residential centres should no longer be a problem.
Can the Minister state how long it will take for these 202 children to be admitted?
I could not say. I have replied to at least six questions in the last year on the 1,500 places. The fact is that there is no money lacking for them. It is a question of organisation, the provision of architectural plans and the training of staff. I cannot give the exact reply to the Deputy.
We have been hearing about this figure of 1,500 places for a long time. Can the Minister state when the 202 children will be accommodated?
I am unable to say.
We will be hearing this next year also.
It is no use the Deputy talking like that. I have given the programme to the House——
Has the Minister given the money?
I have made absolutely clear the reason for the delay in providing the service. It is not related to money. The religious orders are doing everything they can, as are whatever lay organisations concerned.
I am calling Question No. 34.