asked the Minister for Health if he will sanction sufficient finance immediately to allow improvements to be carried out to the operating theatre and the paediatric unit in Wexford County Hospital.
739.
Written Answers. - Wexford Hospital.
738.
asked the Minister for Health when modern facilities will be sanctioned for Wexford County Hospital.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 738 and 739 together.
A development control plan for the General Hospital, Wexford, was approved in 1980. In December 1981 the health board sought approval for the erection of a new theatre suite at the rear of the existing hospital. This proposal is not in accordance with what is envisaged in the development control plan and the board is being asked to examine the feasibility of constructing improved surgical facilities in accordance with the development control plan.
In relation to paediatric accommodation at the hospital the health board have proposed the provision of temporary accommodation.
I should say that I accept the need for the facilities mentioned. However, the capital and revenue costs involved in the proposals are very substantial. The previous Government made no provision for this scheme in the capital programme this year. However, I will be keeping this matter under constant review to ensure that this scheme can proceed when circumstances permit.