Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 Jan 1997

Vol. 473 No. 6

Written Answers. - Home for the Aged.

Séamus Hughes

Question:

109 Mr. Hughes asked the Minister for Health when work will commence on the home for the aged in Achill, County Mayo; the exact location of the home; and the bed complement and the other facilities which are included in the design plan. [2008/97]

Minister for Health (Mr. Noonan,

Limerick East): As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of long stay care for the elderly in Achill is a matter for the Western Health Board.

The board advises me that negotiations are at a final stage in relation to acquiring a site at Achill Sound, Achill Island, County Mayo for the development of a home for the elderly. Discussions are also taking place between the board and Mayo County Council and it is expected that a planning application will be lodged very shortly.

While the board has not yet decided on the level of accommodation to be provided in the proposed development, it is anticipated that the home will have 40 beds comprising welfare, long stay and respite accommodation as well as day care facilities.

However, before any approval can be given to the board to proceed with this development, I must take into account the capital projects currently under way throughout the other health boards and the Western Health Board's internal priorities.