Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Jun 2003

Vol. 569 No. 4

Written Answers. - Nursing Staff.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

222 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children the current number of nurses employed at Portlaoise General Hospital; if his Department has plans to reduce same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17972/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I have made inquiries of the Midland Health Board and have been informed that the current number of whole-time equivalent nurses in the Midland Regional Hospital at Portlaoise is 166. Neither my Department, nor the board has any plans to reduce this number.