Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Oct 1994

Vol. 445 No. 7

Written Answers. - Drogheda (Louth) Hospital Purchase.

Michael Bell

Question:

50 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Health the terms of the purchase by his Department of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, County Louth; the effect, if any, this will have on employment and services; the role the North-Eastern Health Board will have in the new arrangements; the level of representation the board will have at management level; the plans, if any, he has to add other services which currently are only available in Dublin hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [449/94]

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The Government has agreed in principle to the transfer of ownership and management of the hospital from the Congregation of the Medical Missionaries of Mary to a Corporate Body to be established under the Health Corporate Bodies Act, 1961. My Department has been in negotiations with representatives of the Congregation to implement the Government decision. These negotiations have not yet been concluded and the Deputy will appreciate that, in the circumstances, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.