Vol. 495 No. 4
247 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the timescale for the completion of phase 2B of Longford and Westmeath General Hospital at Mullingar, County Westmeath, in view of the fact that this is necessary to finalise the development phase at this hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20464/98]
248 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to fit out and provide the much needed additional beds in the Longford and Westmeath General Hospital, Mullingar, County Westmeath, in view of the fact that a new five storey block remains unfurnished and empty. [20507/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 247 and 248 together.
The Midland Health Board has set a series of priorities in relation to major capital developments for the acute hospitals in its area. These priorities are: the completion of phase 2A of the development at Longford-Westmeath General Hospital, Mullingar; the capital project that is in preparation at Tullamore General Hospital; and the completion of phase 2B at Longford-Westmeath General Hospital.
Since these priorities were established some years ago, I am pleased to report that significant progress has been made. Phase 2A in Mullingar is fully operational. Good progress is being made in relation to the planning process for the capital development at Tullamore General Hospital. In addition, planning is proceeding for important and much-needed developments at Portlaoise General Hospital. These comprise an acute psychiatric unit, paediatric unit and other facilities, including renovation of the catering department and ground floor wards.
Phase 2B at Longford-Westmeath General Hospital, Mullingar involves a ward block and theatre suite. The facilities have been constructed to the "shelled out" phase, involving construction of the outer walls, roof, floors and windows. The completion and commissioning of phase 2B will be considered in the light of available funding as work on the Midland Health Board's other capital priorities proceeds.
