asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the urgent need for extra beds at St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny; if he will take steps to provide extra beds; the number which will be provided; and when the beds will be available.
Written Answers. - Kilkenny Hospital.
439.
I presume that the Deputy's question relates to the proposal submitted to my Department on 2 March 1978 by the South-Eastern Health Board for the provision of 16 extra beds in the maternity department of St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny. It is agreed in principle that extra beds should be provided in the maternity department of this hospital. I await the health board's proposals as to the priority of this project in future capital allocations.