Jim Higgins
Question:153 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health if he will put in place a long term funding arrangement for the North West Hospice, Stephen Street, County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Sligo Hospice Funding.
There are two voluntary hospice groups operating the North Western Health Board area. North West Hospice which covers Sligo/Leitrim and South Donegal (population 92,000) and Donegal Hospice which caters for the remainder of County Donegal (population 121,000).
I understand that discussions are taking place between the North Western Health Board and the North West Hospice to ensure that both the statutory and voluntary services in the case of the terminally ill in the board's area are developed on a complementary basis.
It was in recognition of the excellent work being carried out by the North West Hospice that my Department, through the North Western Health Board, paid a grant of £35,000 in 1991 and £35,000 in 1992 from National Lottery funds to this hospice movement. Further funding arrangements will be considered as sympathetically as possible in the context of the many competing demands for resources throughout the health service.