Vol. 576 No. 1
262 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps he has taken to investigate the reason the Galway hospice at Renmore has remained closed for the past three months; and the steps he has taken to ensure its speedy re-opening. [29292/03]
The provision of health services, including hospices services, in the Galway area is a matter for the Western Health Board. For the past number of years the Galway Hospice Foundation has provided a valuable service to cancer patients and their families in the west.
At present there are difficulties surrounding the operation of the inpatient unit at the centre and no new patients are being admitted. The foundation continues to provide home care and day care services to approximately 100 patients. Patients that require consultant led specialist inpatient care are admitted to University College Hospital, Galway.
263 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if orthodontic treatment will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if an assessment can be arranged with a view to providing treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29293/03]
Responsibility for the provision of orthodontic treatment to eligible persons in County Kilkenny rests with the South-Eastern Health Board. My Department has asked its chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply directly to him.
