Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Feb 1997

Vol. 475 No. 1

Written Answers. - Hospital Services.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

130 Mr. E. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to a proposed change by the Southern Health Board physio services to transfer 14 patients from Heatherside Hospital, Buttevant, County Cork to Mount Alvernia, Mallow, County Cork; to close a unit at Heatherside Hospital as a result and to transfer 18 staff members; if he will intervene and refuse the Southern Health Board permission to carry out this closure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4230/97]

Minister for Health (Mr. Noonan,

Limerick East): I presume that the Deputy's question relates to psychiatric services in the Southern Health Board.

The Southern Health Board is responsible for the delivery of health services, including psycho-geriatric health services, in its functional area. I am informed by the board that its plans for development of mental health services envisage the development of psycho-geriatric services at St. Stephen's Hospital, Sarsfield Court and at Mount Alvernia Hospital, Mallow in the medium term.

I understand that an opportunity may currently exist to transfer a number of patients and staff from Heatherside Hospital to Mount Alvernia Hospital. The proposal is under consideration and will be the subject of detailed discussion with all parties involved. I have been assured by the board that the transfer of patients and staff will not take place without prior agreement.