Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Apr 1998

Vol. 489 No. 6

Written Answers. - Health Centres.

Andrew Boylan

Question:

463 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has made a decision on the allocation of capital for Cootehill health care centre, County Cavan in view of the fact that full planning has been granted; when a building contractor will be appointed to construct the building; his views on whether this project should commence immediately in view of the urgent demand for this centre in the Cootehill area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9374/98]

Seymour Crawford

Question:

468 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Health and Children if money has been provided for the building of the new health centre in Cootehill, County Cavan in the 1998 Estimates; if he will give an estimate of when this building project is likely to start in view of the fact it is vital and necessary to the people of Cootehill and surrounding areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9379/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 463 and 468 together.

My Department's capital programme for the years 1998-2000 is being formulated at present but has not yet been finalised. I expect provision will be made in that programme for a range of community health facilities.

The provision of health centres, including such details as the awarding of contracts is, in the first instance, a matter for the health board concerned and the priority given to any particular project will be established by that health board, bearing in mind the competing demands on the resources available.