Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 31 Jan 2002

Vol. 547 No. 2

Written Answers. - Care of the Elderly.

Michael Finucane

Question:

114 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of long stay beds available in Saint Ita's Hospital, Newcastle West; and when further beds will be provided to cater to the expanding elderly population in County Limerick. [3092/02]

Michael Finucane

Question:

115 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of respite beds and rehabilitation beds available in Saint Ita's Hospital, Newcastle West, County Limerick; and his views on whether it is adequate for the expanding elderly population in the County Limerick catchment area for Saint Ita's. [3093/02]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Dr. Moffatt)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 114 and 115 together.

The provision of health services in County Limerick is a matter for the Mid-Western Health Board.

I have been informed by the board that there are 130 long-stay beds in Saint Ita's Hospital, Newcastle West at present. The board has stated that there are eight rehabilitation beds available at the Hospital and while there are also two respite beds, up to six beds may be utilised for respite at any one time.

In the board's 2002 service plan it is proposed to increase the rehabilitation beds in the hospital. This is in conjunction with the Mid-Western Health Board's plan to develop a 12 bed ambulant dementia unit and also four palliative care support beds. The board has advised that the need for beds is kept under review. The board has stated that the development of community supports, day services and voluntary housing schemes will support the care of older people remaining in their homes.