Vol. 572 No. 6
314 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients who have been treated in the accident and emergency department, St. Columcille's Hospital, Loughlinstown, in 2000, 2001 and 2002; the amount of funding which has been promised to improve the accident and emergency service in the hospital over the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24243/03]
Responsibility for the provision of services at St. Columcille's Hospital, Loughlinstown rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, requested the regional chief executive of the authority to collate the information requested in relation to the number of patients treated in the accident and emergency department, and to respond directly to the Deputy.
The Deputy will be aware that my Department approved, under the national development plan, a programme of capital works at St. Columcille's Hospital. This programme of work includes an extension, modifications and alterations to the existing accident and emergency department. This investment was designed to provide improved treatment facilities, including dedicated paediatric services, waiting areas and triage facilities. My Department has been advised by the Eastern Regional Health Authority that the capital works at the accident and emergency department are now completed.
Question No. 315 answered with Question No. 294.
