Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 22 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 5

Written Answers. - Private Hospital System.

Richard Bruton

Question:

3 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions, if any, he has had with the Eastern Health Board with a view to it acquiring St. Michael's private hospital in Dún Laoghaire for use as a public hospital or as a step-down facility; and the consideration if any, he has given to the impact of the loss of beds which will result from this hospital closing down. [10459/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen): I have no statutory role in relation to the private hospital system. The level of provision of health services at private hospitals is determined by private health care providers in association with the health insurance industry.

On 30 March my Department was informed by the congregation of the Sisters of Mercy, who are the owners of St. Michael's private hospital, Dún Laoghaire, that the hospital is to close in the coming months. The order indicated that the decision was taken after a lengthy assessment. In particular, it referred to the unsustainable financial position of the hospital which has apparently put it at a competitive disadvantage in relation to other similar facilities.

The Sisters of Mercy have indicated that several alternatives have already been considered for the premises and that the disposal of some or all of the property is considered essential. The Eastern Health Board has statutory responsibility for the provision of public health services in the eastern region and the board has indicated that it will be contacting the order to determine any possible interest by the board in the site. When these contacts are completed I would expect to hear further from the board in relation to any resulting proposals.

The Deputy will be aware that St. Michael's public hospital is also located on the same campus as the private hospital and is unaffected by the closure. The board of management of St. Michael's public hospital has prepared a development control plan for the upgrading of facilities throughout the public hospital. As part of this work I understand that the board of management will be in discussion with the order in relation to possible future use of the private hospital facilities.