Vol. 524 No. 4
107 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the way in which he proposes to deal with a situation where most Dublin hospitals are full to capacity and where any increase in winter related illnesses will result in a major crisis as outlined in a statement by a consultant (details supplied). [22764/00]
As the Deputy may be aware, I have initiated a national review of bed capacity in both the acute and non-acute sectors. This review is in line with the commitment contained in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. The review is being conducted by my Department in conjunction with the Department of Finance and in consultation with the social partners. I have presented the interim findings of the review to my Government colleagues and identified a range of short to medium term investment proposals aimed at addressing identified service difficulties in both sectors. Further work is now being undertaken to develop a longer term investment strategy for the acute and non-acute sectors. The second phase of the review will be completed in spring 2001.
108 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps he will take to deal with the large number of young people attending coronary care units due to being overweight; and if he has any proposals to get young people more involved in recreational pursuits. [22765/00]
My Department does not routinely collect data which would identify young people attending coronary care units or their personal details such as their weight patterns. However, Building Healthier Hearts – the Cardiovascular Health Strategy report does contain 211 recommendations aimed at reducing the incidence of cardiovascular disease in Ireland over the coming years. The successful implementation of this strategy will reduce the number of people including young people attending coronary care units.
The SLÁN survey provides data on the weight and height of young people. The results show that 23% of children, 18% of boys and 28% of girls, expressed the view that they needed to lose weight. The SLÁN survey also highlights that 62% of boys and 45% of girls are exercising four or more times a week, outside of school time.
