asked the Minister for Health the total extent of public money used in the provision of Cheeverstown House, Templeogue, Dublin 16; the number of handicapped children who are being treated there at present; the reason part of these facilities is being used by a private school; the action he intends to take to ensure that these facilities are fully used for the purpose for which they were built; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cheeverstown House, Dublin.
43.
Cheeverstown was planned to accommodate a total of 130 on a residential basis and 184 on a day basis and was built at a capital cost of £8.5 million.
The centre currently caters for 134 adults and children attending day services and there are in addition 60 residents which the Board of Cheeverstown House claim is the most they can cater for within an allocation of £2.1 million. Pending the allocation to them of additional resources, it is understood that they have decided to lease part of the premises.
I do not accept this situation. I am satisfied that a more co-ordinated enhanced service can be provided from the centre and I have made certain proposals, in this regard, to the Eastern Health Board and to the Cheeverstown House Board. My essential concern is to ensure the highest quality of care and good value for the resource which has been made available.