asked the Minister for Health the number of community care nurses employed by the North-Western Health Board who are available to give advice in the homes of persons where mentally handicapped adults or children reside; if he considers that the number available is adequate or satisfactory; and if not, the number of nurses that would be reasonably required for this purpose.
Written Answers. - Community Care Nurses.
514.
There are 87 public health nurses employed by the North-Western Health Board on district duties — 52 in Donegal Community Care Area and 35 in Sligo-Leitrim Community Care Area. As part of their normal district nursing duties, these nurses are available to give advice in the homes of persons where mentally handicapped adults or children reside.
The health board is satisfied that the number of public health nurses is adequate for this purpose and that the needs of the mentally handicapped are being met satisfactorily. I concur with the health board's assessment of the situation.