Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Apr 1991

Vol. 407 No. 6

Written Answers. - Hospital Closure.

Michael Bell

Question:

150 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Health when the decision of the North-Eastern Health Board to close St. Mary's Geriatric Hospital was taken; if a direction or approval was given to that decision; the result of the vote of the health board in relation to the closure; if the hospital will now close; if he has any plans to direct the health board to reverse that decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon):

On 16 May 1988, the North Eastern Health Board adopted a report on the rationalisation of the geriatric services in the Drogheda area. As a result of this report, 21 patients have transferred from St. Mary's to the Cottage Hospital.

The future of St. Mary,s Hospital is a matter for the health board to decide. I have not given nor have I been asked to give, a direction or approval to the health board in relation to the hospital.