Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 27 May 1999

Vol. 505 No. 5

Written Answers. - Hospital Development Programme.

Alan Shatter

Question:

94 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will sanction the next phase of the development programme for Mullingar General Hospital; the target date for completion of all essential works; the reason for the delay; and the regional specialities he proposes be based at the hospital. [14112/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The question of reviewing the brief for the Phase 2B development of Longford/Westmeath General Hospital and drawing up a programme for carrying out the work involved is a matter for the Midland Health Board in the first instance.

The board's priority general hospital developments at Tullamore and Portlaoise are currently being planned, and the timing of the Phase 2B scheme at Longford/Westmeath General Hospital will be considered in the context of a review of the Department's medium-term capital programme.