Vol. 543 No. 4
114 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he proposes to develop centres in towns and villages in order that the elderly in those areas can receive medical treatment and care in a community setting. [27411/01]
Treatment and care in a community setting, which is fundamental to my Department's philosophy in relation to services to older people, is normally provided in either a community hospital or day care centre. Since the Government came into office, community hospitals or community nursing units have been opened in a number of locations such as Dublin, Achill, Fermoy and Ballyconnell. Day care centres have been opened in many other locations and the Deputy will be pleased to learn that, within the Southern Health Board area, day care centres have been established in Dingle, Mallow, Midleton, Dunmanway and Bandon.
With specific funding under the national development plan, it is proposed to construct an even greater number of community hospitals-nursing units, and examples of such locations are Dublin, Virginia, Arranmore, Ballinasloe, Loughrea, Galway city, Birr, Thurles, Enniscorthy and Dingle. Additional day care centres will also be constructed under the national development plan.
Questions Nos. 115 and 116 answered with Question No. 75.
