Vol. 536 No. 2
303 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will give final sanction to the Western Health Board for the agreed acquisition of Portiuncula Hospital, County Galway; if he proposes to make additional funds available to the Western Health Board following the take-over of this hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13765/01]
I am anxious to finalise the transfer of ownership of Portiuncula Hospital from the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood to the Western Health Board at the earliest possible date. Certain issues have arisen in relation to the arrangements for the transfer which require further clarification and professional advice has been sought in the matter. I expect to receive this advice shortly and hope that the terms of the transfer can then be concluded. In the meantime, normal services at the hospital continue to be provided to patients.
