Michael Ring
Question:144 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans he has to provide a neurosurgery unit at University College Galway, County Galway; and the progress being made in this regard. [21449/00]
Written Answers. - Hospital Services.
As the Deputy will be aware, in April 1998, my predecessor announced a major phase 2 capital development for University College Hospital Galway which will enable the development of the hospital as a major regional centre providing the range of specialities associated with a university teaching hospital. I understand from the Western Health Board that the tender for this contract was signed on 23 June 2000 and work has commenced. The phase 2 development at the hospital will provide for cardiac surgery and radiotherapy facilities, trauma orthopaedic beds, a burns unit, additional ICU beds, an MRI unit, a new medical social work department and a new concourse to include administration, admissions and medical social work.
The Deputy will be aware that a second consultant neurologist was approved by my Department in January of this year. The establishment of neurosurgery facilities at the hospital is not envisaged at this time.