Vol. 457 No. 4
50 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Health if he has satisfied himself with the current security arrangements in hospitals in view of the serious concern expressed at the recent hospital consultants' conference about the dangers posed to staff in hospitals, particularly in accident and emergency departments; if he will provide the necessary funding to enable all hospitals to put in place adequate safeguards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15521/95]
53 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Health his views on recent calls by the Irish Health Care Association for a Garda presence in outpatient departments in hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15507/95]
Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 50 and 53 together.
The health boards and voluntary hospital authorities have been putting security arrangements in place in hospitals over the last number of years. These initiatives have been supported by my Department. In the provision of hospital security, it is important to strike a balance so that there is ease of access to services for patients and their families while at the same time endeavouring to protect staff as far as possible where this is necessary. Security arrangements in hospitals will continue to be reviewed in the light of prevailing circumstances.
