I propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 385 together.
The provision of hospital services in Roscommon is a matter for the Western Health Board in the first instance.
I have made inquiries of the board in this matter. I am informed that overcrowding levels on the scale mentioned by the Deputy are not experienced in Roscommon. I understand that the normal medical bed complement is 35 and that this can be increased in response to exceptional demands such as was experienced during the recent flu epidemic. Elective admissions to the surgical department were reduced to cater for the increased level of medical admissions. I am informed that additional staff were employed as considered necessary.
A small level of overcrowding has been experienced within the last two weeks. The situation is being monitored closely.