I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 453 and 454 together.
The question of the provision of services, including long-stay accommodation, for old people in County Clare is a matter, in the first instance, for the MidWestern Health Board. I understand that the recommendations of a special ad hoc committee, set up under the health board to consider this question, will be considered by the health board in the near future. Any proposals submitted to the Department by the health board, following their examination of the recommendations, will be considered by me, in the context of the priority accorded to them by the health board and the resources available.
455.