asked the Minister for Health the amount of the charge for semi-private accommodation in a major general hospital in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway after 1st April, 1974, after Health Act benefit has been allowed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hospital Charges.
39.
The question of the charge to be made as from 1st April, 1974, for private and semi-private accommodation in hospitals is at present being considered. I will make a statement on the matter as soon as possible.
Will the Minister ensure that in view of the scheme which is being brought in there will be no attempt to increase the rate of charge that at present exists for semi-private accommodation?
I cannot give any guarantee on that yet.
The Minister will not guarantee to try to keep down the cost?
I will guarantee to try to keep down the cost but I will not be pinned down to any specific proposal by the Deputy.
Does the Minister feel it is likely to arise after 1st April?
I have no comment to make other than what I said in reply to the Deputy's question. I said I will make a statement on the matter as soon as possible.