Michael Ferris
Question:340 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Health the plans which are being put in place to improve the chronic overcrowding in St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - St. Luke's Hospital (Kilkenny) Overcrowding.
I am aware that overcrowding has been a feature of St. Luke's Hospital for some years. I met with a deputation from the South-Eastern Health Board before Christmas and discussed with them plans for resolving the problems of the hospital.
I have accepted that the provision of additional facilities at St. Luke's Hospital is a priority and in 1990 I gave my approval to the expenditure of £144,000 to proceed with the planning of the proposed three storey development. Building will commence as soon as resources are available.
Ongoing discussions are taking place between officials of my Department and the South-Eastern Health Board to try to resolve some of the service difficulties at the hospital.