Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 22 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 5

Written Answers. - Hospitals Refurbishment.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

98 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children the current status of plans to upgrade and extend St. Colmcille's Hospital, Loughlinstown, County Dublin; the plans and time-frame for the delivery of a paediatric accident and emergency service at the same hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14800/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The development of services at St. Columcille's Hospital, Loughlinstown is a matter for consideration by the Eastern Regional Health Authority in the first instance.

As the Deputy is aware, my colleague, Deputy Hanafin, announced in July 2000 approval to a grant of £5 million for the upgrading of facilities at St. Columcille's Hospital. This development will include an extension to the existing accident and emergency department and the development of a new day procedures unit. I have been informed by the regional chief executive officer of the ERHA that a project team is in place to oversee this work and that detailed briefs are now being completed. This investment will contribute significantly to the enhancement of accident and emergency and day surgery services at the hospital.

I am further advised by the authority that discussions are taking place on the detailed configuration of a new consultant paediatric service for the east coast area in line with the provisions for the development of this service in the East Coast Area Health Board's Provider Plan for 2001.

Consultations with GP's and users are taking place in this context and it is envisaged that these will be completed very shortly.