Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Oct 1999

Vol. 509 No. 4

Written Answers. - Health Board Funding.

Brendan Smith

Question:

221 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the severe hardship imposed on many individuals attending the Centres of the National Training and Development Institute due to the inadequate transport service which results in many individuals having to leave home very early in the morning and returning late in the evening; the proposals, if any, he has to substantially increase the level of funding to the health boards for this particular transport service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20417/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The issue of providing transport services is in the first instance the responsibility of the agency concerned. However, I am aware that the North-Eastern Health Board does provide assistance towards the transport costs of trainees attending National Training and Development Institute workshops.

Consequently, I have asked the chief executive officer of the North-Eastern Health Board to communicate directly with the Deputy as a matter of urgency about his concerns.