Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Jun 1998

Vol. 491 No. 7

Written Answers. - Hospital Accommodation.

Willie Penrose

Question:

173 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the shortage of long stay beds for female patients at St. Mary's Hospital, Mullingar, County Westmeath; the steps, if any, he is taking to alleviate this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13258/98]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Dr. Moffatt)

As the Deputy may be aware, the provision of extended care for female patients at St. Mary's Hospital, Mullingar, is a matter for the Midland Health Board.

The board has advised me that the breakdown of bed availability at St Mary's Hospital is as follows:

Male	48
Female	75
Rehabilitation (Male and Female)	14
Total	137

I understand that the current waiting list in respect of beds for female patients numbers eight, four of whom were placed on the list on 26 May last. The board advise that of the eight, three are currently residing in nursing homes. While the board does not consider the current situation in St Mary's hospital to be of critical concern, I have been assured that bed availability at the hospital will be kept under review.