I propose to take Questions Nos. 290, 291 and 292 together.
I am aware that the North Western Health Board have placed the main building at St. Columba's Hospital, Sligo and approximately 20 acres of adjoining land for sale by tender.
I have been informed by the North Western Health Board that prior to placing the building and lands on the market, the board had discussions with the County Sligo Vocational Education Committee regarding their possible interest in the property.
The North Western Health Board are the holder of the title deeds and the vendor of the hospital. The board are the owners of the hospital by virtue of the provisions of the Health Act, 1970, and the rights of other authorities in this matter do not therefore arise. I understand that it is the health board's intention to apply the proceeds from the sale of this property towards the development of the psychiatric services and services for the elderly.