Vol. 457 No. 7
123 Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn asked the Minister for Health his views on the need for a substantial increase in the overall number of long-stay unit wards to cater for the ageing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16239/95]
Limerick East): With the elderly population set to rise, there is a need to provide some additional health board long-stay places. While the waiting period for admission to a long-stay unit is quite short in some areas, there are undoubtedly problems in others which need to be addressed now and this is being done. I announced during the summer my commitment to a capital programme over the next few years which will improve long-stay health board care facilities for the elderly in each of the eight boards. I perceive this as one of a number of priorities which must be addressed within the capital programme on a sustained basis, until the identified needs for additional and improved accommodation have been met.
