Vol. 415 No. 8
128 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Health if he will make additional resources available on a planned basis to the mental health services in St. Ita's Hospital, Portrane, as the resources and services available to the patients are inadequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
St. Ita's Hospital provide in-patient facilities for the mentally ill covering the areas of North Dublin city and county. St. Joseph's Mental Handicap Service which is also located in St. Ita's Hospital provides residential accommodation and occupational, industrial and recreational therapy for people with a mental handicap in separate accommodation from patients with a mental illness.
The Eastern Health Board are responsible for the level and care of people at the hospital and at all times endeavour to ensure that facilities are maintained to the highest possible level.
As the Deputy is aware the buildings which form the St. Ita's Hospital complex are regularly maintained by the health board and improved facilities are being provided as resources become available. I am satisfied, however, that the current level of services and standard of care in St. Ita's Hospital are satisfactory.
