Vol. 521 No. 3
120 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the public concern regarding the future developments at Monaghan General Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17021/00]
The North-Eastern Health Board's five-year framework policy document for acute hospitals was unanimously adopted by the board in June 1998. It outlines the proposals for the Cavan-Monaghan hospital group. A project team, appointed by the chief executive officer of the North-Eastern Health Board, with representation from my Department is currently preparing a brief for the Cavan-Monaghan hospital group which will form the basis for instructing an architect and design team to advance the planned developments. Under the national development plan, some £80 million has been approved for the North-Eastern Health Board's hospitals and ambulance development during the period 2001-06.
The North-Eastern Health Board is fully committed to the future development of Monaghan hospital and to the provision of a high level of service for the people of Monaghan. Substantial refurbishment took place at the hospital last year and this year, the board has planned a new female medical ward and plans are also being finalised for the purchase and upgrading of essential equipment for the hospital.
