(Cavan-Monaghan) asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that a person (details supplied) in County Cavan, having been discharged from a hospital in Delvin, County Westmeath where she was a patient for several years, is awaiting a bed in a suitable institution; and if he will take steps to have her provided with accommodation as she cannot reasonably be looked after at home.
Written Answers. - County Cavan Patient.
150.
The provision of accommodation for the person referred to is primarily a matter for the North-Easten Health Board.
I have had inquiries made from the board and the position is that the girl was discharged in June 1980, from St Mary's, Delvin which is a residential centre for mentally handicapped children, upon reaching the upper age limit of 17. At that time a place was offered her in St Peter's Hospital, Castlepollard, which is a residential centre for adult mentally handicapped persons administered by the Midland Health Board. I understand that her parents declined this offer. This person's name has subsequently been put on waiting lists for two residential centres for the female mentally handicapped, one in Dublin and the other in Monasterevan. I understand, however, that it may be some considerable time before a vacancy arises for the girl in either of these centres.