Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 May 1999

Vol. 504 No. 2

Written Answers. - Power Failures.

Liz McManus

Question:

205 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of power failures in hospitals to date in 1999; the circumstances surrounding the power failure reported in a newspaper article (details supplied) at Merlin Hospital; the cause of this power failure; the extent in this regard; if he will give a commitment that all essential equipment in all departments at Merlin Park Hospital and the Galway Regional Hospital is maintained on service contracts that allow for regular inspection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11365/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen):

My Department is not routinely notified of the occurrence of power failures in hospitals. My Department has been assessing the situation with agencies generally with a view to establishing the exact shortcomings, if any, that exist and the consequent work that should be carried out to address problems where they are likely to occur.

In relation to the specific case raised, the provision and management of services in this instance is the responsibility of the Western Health Board. I have asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the position in relation to this matter and to reply to the Deputy directly.