Vol. 569 No. 4
214 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in providing funding to facilitate the opening of the community nursing unit at Birr, County Offaly; when this funding will be provided; when the unit will be opened; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17940/03]
The overall economic position in 2003 has had implications for all aspects of public investment, and this is reflected in the Estimates and budget adopted by the Government for 2003. Within this overall framework, however, some two-thirds of the additional funding available for non-capital investment in services has been allocated to the health services. This funding is being applied largely to maintaining existing levels of service across all service programmes, including services for older people.
While it is regrettable the level of investment in these services achieved in recent years could not be maintained in 2003, my Department will work closely with the health boards and other service providers on service provision this year. I am examining all options to ensure that the new unit in Birr opens at the earliest possible date.
