Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 30 Jan 1991

Vol. 404 No. 4

Written Answers. - Kerry Nursing Home Closure.

John O'Leary

Question:

341 Mr. O'Leary asked the Minister for Health if he will arrange for the Southern Health Board to take over a private nursing home in Milltown, County Kerry or if he will direct the board to pay subventions to the proprietors of this home, in view of its serious financial position and the imminent loss of 20 jobs should it be forced to close; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

I understand that the nursing home referred to by the Deputy closed on 1 January 1991. Those patients who applied to the Southern Health Board for alternative accommodation were provided for.

The nursing home in question is a commercial concern. It would not be appropriate for the Minister for Health to direct a health board to commit public funds in the manner suggested by the Deputy. It is a matter for the Southern Health Board to ensure adequate arrangements for elderly people who need nursing care and who cannot provide it from their own means.

I have been in touch with the Southern Health Board about this matter and the board's proposals to develop services for the elderly in Kerry do not include any arrangements with the nursing home in question.