Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 17 Oct 1991

Vol. 411 No. 2

Written Answers. - Community Psychiatric Facilities.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

64 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if he will outline his current intentions in relation to the provision of special hospital or community psychiatric facilities required on the transfer of responsibilities of the South-Eastern Health Board to the Eastern Health Board in respect of south and mid-Kildare; if the necessary funds are likely to be made available in the current year or if provision will be made for same in 1992 Estimates; if he will outline the extent of facilities now planned to meet these requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

Traditional services for south and mid-Kildare have been provided from St. Dympna's Hospital, Carlow, by the South-Eastern Health Board. With the transfer of services to the Eastern Health Board it is envisaged that mental health centres will be established at Castledermot and Kildare town and hostels will be provided at Naas, Athy and Maynooth. In-patient treatment will be provided at a new acute 30 bed psychiatric unit at Naas General Hospital.

The Eastern Health Board received as part of their allocation for 1991 an amount of £750,000 to enable both community and acute in-patient services in south and mid-County Kildare to commence this year. Discussions are continuing between officials of my Department and the Eastern Health Board in relation to 1992 funding requirements for this service as part of the overall Estimates cycle.