There are 64 bed spaces in St. Bricin's Hospital and typical bed occupancy ranges between 20 and 40 patients. The hospital provides the following outpatient and inpatient services for members of the Defence Forces: general surgery, psychiatry, physiotherapy, radiology, pathology, dental services — including periodontal treatment — and a full pharmacy service. St. Bricin's is neither equipped nor staffed to provide services other than those provided at present. The hospital has a staff of 80 military personnel, 17 nurses and 24 civilian employees. A number of civilian medical consultants are also employed on a part-time basis.
In 1997, the cost of fuel and light came to about £100,000 and rations cost £36,000. The cost of capital equipment is approximately £20,000 annually.
Any proposal that might lead to increased utilisation of the hospital's facilities without additional expenditure being incurred by my Department, would receive serious consideration. Discussions are currently taking place with a major Dublin hospital with a view to setting up a pilot inpatient scheme which could be of benefit to both hospitals.