Tony Killeen
Question:72 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to provide a maternity unit in Ennis, County Clare; if so, the proposed location of such a unit; and when the project is likely to commence. [2458/97]
Written Answers. - Maternity Services.
Limerick East): The provision of maternity services in Ennis is a matter for the Mid-Western Health Board in the first instance. The policy of the Mid-Western Health Board is that maternity services for the region should be located at the Regional Maternity Hospital in Limerick.
The concentration of obstetric services in the Regional Maternity Hospital has led to an improved perinatal mortality rate, specifically because consultant obstetricians and paediatricians, supported by medical staff, are available on a 24 hour basis and provision of a dedicated neonatal unit staffed by midwives and nurses who have undertaken specialist training in the care of neonates.