asked the Minister for Health when it is expected to grant approval to proceed with the welfare home for the Monaghan area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Monaghan Area Welfare Home.
4.
In common with other health boards, the provision of funds in 1975 for capital projects for the North-Eastern Health Board was reviewed some time ago in the light of the overall capital allocation for hospitals, the amount required to provide for existing inescapable commitments and other relevant factors. As a result, the board was informed that it would not be possible to allocate funds for the commencement of the welfare home at Monaghan during the current year. The matter is being kept under continuous review and when further funds become available the question of proceeding with a welfare home for the Monaghan area will be considered after consultation with the health board as to its priorities.
Is the Minister aware of the dire need for the provision of these welfare homes? Would he not agree that a delay of even six months would add at least 10 per cent to the cost of building these homes? Could he give the House an assurance that he will give this top priority?
It is not a question of my being the absolute so far as priorities are concerned. These are determined by the health board. There is no question of abandoning the project whatsoever. All I am saying to Deputy Leonard is that it will be considered within the capital allocation for 1976.