asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement on the progress to date towards integrating the Departments of Health and Social Welfare; and when it is envisaged that complete integration will have been achieved.
Written Answers. - Departmental Amalgamation.
185.
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the amalgamation of the two Departments on the lines recommended by the Public Services Organisation Review Group. No decision has yet been taken as to whether or not the two Departments will be amalgamated.
In the interim, practical co-ordination of the activities of my two Departments exists where the needs of particular services call for it. It is my intention to improve this where it is found necessary.