asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that there are 154 persons on the waiting list for hip operations at Merlin Park Hospital, Galway, and that the long waiting list is due to the delay by his Department in approving tenders for a new orthopaedic operating theatre suite submitted by the Western Health Board on 6 July 1984; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Galway Hospital.
279.
I am aware of the waiting lists for hip replacement operations in Galway Regional Hospital. As I indicated to the Deputy by written reply on 6 November my Department is at present in correspondence with the Western Health Board in regard to the tendering procedures for the new orthopaedic theatre suite at Merlin Park. As soon as these tendering procedures have been agreed I can assure the Deputy that this project will be carefully considered in the context of the health capital programme which is at present being prepared.