Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 May 1998

Vol. 491 No. 5

Written Answers. - Family Planning Services.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

80 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of funding allocated to a clinic (details supplied) in County Cork since it opened over 20 years ago; his views on whether the funding allocated is or has been adequate and in line with funding with similar clinics in other health board regions; if he will make adequate funding available to meet the ongoing costs of continuing to provide the service in view of the fact this clinic provides an excellent service to the local community and is also a recognised training centre of very high quality for doctors and nurses in that field; if he will grant aid the cost of refurbishing the premises to bring it up to health and safety standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12520/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The provision of family planning services is the statutory responsibility of the health boards. Accordingly, the allocation of funds to this clinic is a matter for the Southern Health Board. I am, however, informed by the board that the clinic received an allocation of £6,000 in 1996 and £3,000 in 1997. I am also advised that a further application from the clinic for funding is currently under consideration by the health board and it includes a request for additional funding towards the renovation of their premises. It is expected that a decision on this issue will be made in the near future.