Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 18 Apr 2002

Vol. 552 No. 2

Written Answers. - Hospital Services.

Michael Noonan

Question:

90 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to a proposal to upgrade the only hyperbaric chamber here located in Galway and used to treat an increasing number of medical conditions; if his Department has received a proposal to fund some of the costs involved in the upgrading; if his Department has been in contact with other relevant Departments with regard to the upgrade of the chamber; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12187/02]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

My colleague the Minister of State, Deputy Moffatt, met earlier this year with the Irish Underwater Council. I am aware of proposals to upgrade the hyperbaric chamber at University College Hospital Galway, and the Department of the Marine and Natural Resources has been in touch with my Department and the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation in the matter. The question of providing health services funding for this project will be considered in the context of the capital funding available and the priority attached to the project by the Western Health Board.