Bernard Allen
Question:267 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals he has to improve security at the accident and emergency departments of hospitals. [26357/02]
Written Answers. - Accident and Emergency Services.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that an independent review of security arrangements in the accident and emergency departments of all hospitals in the State providing accident and emergency services was undertaken earlier this year. The report of the review recommended the introduction of a range of measures aimed at enhancing security arrangements in accident and emergency departments and these measures are at present being put in place by the hospitals concerned in consultation with staff members providing the service.
My Department has provided a total of €2.35 million in the current year to the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards towards the cost associated with the enhanced security arrangements.