asked the Minister for Health the reason for the delay in the commencement of the modernisation plan at St. Patrick's Hospital, Fermoy, County Cork, which was due to start in early March, and if he is aware of the hardship involved at present in the running of the hospital.
Written Answers. - County Cork Hospital.
609.
I am aware of the need for certain improvements at St. Patrick's Hospital, Fermoy, and accordingly I am making funds available for the provision of a lift and for the upgrading of ward accommodation. There has been no delay in the planning process for this project. On 29 April the Southern Health Board submitted to my Department the report of the design team on the tenders for the scheme. I am happy to announce that I have just given my approval to the acceptance of tenders. Construction should start in the near future.