Vol. 456 No. 8
45 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Health his views regarding the comments in a recently published report by consultants which referred adversely to the Louth County Hospital and other hospitals in the north-east region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14787/95]
Limerick East): Since taking office as Minister for Health, I have stated explicitly on a number of occasions that I have no proposals to downgrade or close any hospitals. I assure the Deputy that my policy on this issue remains unchanged.
With regard to Louth County Hospital, I recently approved a £1 million capital development to facilitate the hospital to continue to play a pivotal role in the provision of acute hospital services within the north-eastern region. This substantial capital investment is further evidence of my commitment to the future of the hospital.
