Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 Apr 1994

Vol. 442 No. 2

Written Answers. - Geriatric Unit Transfer.

Paul McGrath

Question:

135 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health if a decision has been made to transfer a geriatric unit from St. Loman's Hospital, Mullingar, County Westmeath, to Edgeworthstown, County Longford; when this transfer will take place; and the number of staff positions which will be lost in Mullingar as a result.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The Midland Health Board is responsible for the delivery of mental health services in its functional area which includes the counties of Westmeath and Longford.

In line with the implementation of the recommendations of Planning for the Future, the board hopes to open a high support hostel in Edgeworthstown, County Longford, to coincide with the opening of another high support hostel in Mullingar, County Westmeath. These facilities, which are expected to open within the next few months, will serve the needs of psychiatric patients currently residing in St. Loman's Hospital, Mullingar, but whose needs can be more appropriately met in a community-based setting.

The transfer of patients to these two high support hostels will enable the relocation of elderly patients currently residing in St. Loman's to other wards within the hospital. Approximately 22 staff posts will transfer from the hospital to the new hostel facilities. There will be no job losses and all transfers of staff will be voluntary.