Vol. 483 No. 1
187 Mr. Cosgrave asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for his decision to cancel a scheduled visit to a hospital (details supplied) in Dublin 3 on 7 November 1997; if the postponement of the appointment relates to industrial unrest at the hospital over nurses' security concerns; if he has been briefed by hospital management on the allegations that a female patient was raped in a corridor at the hospital on 5 June 1997. [19932/97]
I was recently unable to visit the hospital due to unforeseen circumstances. However, I intend to reschedule my visit at an early date.
I am aware of the alleged incident which took place at the hospital on 5 June 1997. The matter was reported promptly to the Inspector of Mental Hospitals and I understand that the incident is now a matter of investigation by the gardaí
I understand the management and the unions representing the staff at the hospital have been involved in ongoing discussions regarding security at the hospital and that a number of measures have been undertaken or are about to be undertaken to improve security on the hospital campus. I have been assured by the management at the hospital that it is making every effort to resolve the security issues and I hope it will be possible to reach a consensus with the unions involved in the best interests of patients and staff.
