Denis Naughten
Question:229 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to increase the number of occupational therapists in the Western Health Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6744/99]
Written Answers. - Occupational Therapists.
Denis Naughten
Question:230 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to ensure that an additional occupational therapist is appointed to County Roscommon in view of the waiting list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6745/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 229 and 230 together.
The appointment of additional occupational therapists is a matter for the relevant health board. In the case of County Roscommon, this would be a matter for the Western Health Board.
This year, an additional £3 million revenue, rising to £6 million on a full-year cost basis in the year 2000, has been allocated to the health boards for the development of services for people with physical and sensory disabilities. Of this, the Western Health Board received £300,000 for development of services in this sector in its area. Priorities for the allocation of this funding will be decided by the board in consultation with its Regional Co-ordinating Committee for Physical and Sensory Disability Services. The appointment of additional occupational therapists will be considered by the board in this context.