Vol. 505 No. 3
139 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will prevent the closure in July of the female surgical ward at St. Luke's hospital, Kilkenny; the reason for this policy; when the decision was reached or debated by the South-Eastern Health Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13459/99]
The management of services at St. Luke's Hospital is a matter for the South-Eastern Health Board in the first instance. I understand from the board that St. Luke's Hospital has been engaged over the past number of years in a programme of refurbishing units within the hospital to bring them up to modern standards. The board plans to refurbish the female surgical unit this year. In view of the pressure of medical admissions the only time feasible to undertake this work is during the summer period when medical admissions are at their lowest. I understand that it is the board's intention to agree this with the hospital's medical board and other interests locally and to undertake the work at a time when it is possible to source appropriate contractors.
