Vol. 496 No. 6
300 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to the provision of an old persons' home in Ballinrobe, County Mayo; the progress, if any, made in respect of site acquisition in this regard; his financial support to the health board for its proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23440/98]
301 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of elderly people in the Ballinrobe, County Mayo, catchment area who may avail of services at an old persons' home to be provided in the town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23441/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 300 and 301 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the County Mayo area is a matter for the Western Health Board.
The board has advised me that a community nursing unit for older people in Ballinrobe would be intended to serve an immediate catchment area of 15,000-20,000 population. The proportion of older persons within that general population would be approximately 2,200 to 3,000 based on an average of 15 per cent of the population. The board considers that a unit incorporating rehabilitation, convalescence, respite, day hospital, welfare and long-stay would service the needs of the area.
A site in Ballinrobe town was acquired by the board some years ago for this purpose. I understand that the board is currently preparing a priority list in relation to the provision of new community nursing units and the adaptation of existing units and that the Ballinrobe project will be considered in that context.
I can assure the Deputy that the board's priority proposals for the development of community nursing units will be fully considered by me as soon as these are received in my Department.
