asked the Minister for Health the present position regarding the proposals of the Southern Health Board to extend the district hospitals in Kenmare, County Kerry, and Castletownbere, County Cork.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - District Hospitals Expansion.
18.
No proposals to extend these district hospitals have been submitted to my Department.
Will the Minister draw the attention of the health board to the fact that there is serious overcrowding in the hospitals and that there are long waiting lists for admission? There are large catchment areas allocated to the hospitals.
I am aware the Southern Health Board are considering the provision of more beds in these two areas. It appears they are considering the provision of ten extra beds each for the Kenmare and Castletownbere district hospitals. I have not yet received any proposals from the health board.
Would the Minister state if the Southern Health Board have had any discussions or consultations with his Department in respect of these hospitals?
Not that I am aware of. I have told the Deputy the board are considering proposals but they have not yet reached the Department.