Vol. 524 No. 2
278 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the serious concern at the closure of the operating theatre at Monaghan General Hospital; the plans he has for the provision of surgery at the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22089/00]
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 work is ongoing to prepare for the further development of facilities at the hospital. In this context, the brief which is being prepared by the North Eastern Health Board will ensure that planned facilities at Monaghan General Hospital are in line with best modern standards in all respects. The board has an obligation to ensure that the healthcare services it provides to clients and patients meet acceptable standards of safety.
Health Risk Resources International advised the chief executive officer of the board in August 2000 that they had concerns regarding serious deficiencies in the physical infrastructure of the operating theatre at the Monaghan hospital site. The proposed development of the hospital contained in the board's 1998 framework document includes the provision of two fully equipped operating theatres. However, the deficiencies in the present theatre are such that remedial action must be taken in the immediate future to ensure a safe environment for surgical procedures pending the provision of new theatres. A schedule of the works necessary to provide a semi-permanent theatre at Monaghan has been finalised and this theatre will be available for use early in 2001.
I also understand from the board that the consultants on call at Monaghan hospital will continue to see all emergencies. Protocols and procedures have been put in place for the transfer of patients to other hospitals if required following triage at Monaghan. The board has also put in place transport arrangements to accommodate patients and their families affected by transfers to other hospitals.
