I propose to take Questions Nos. 207 and 208 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Galway area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the Western Health Board. The board has submitted to my Department a proposal to develop a health campus in Tuam, County Galway.
My Department is at present examining the health capital programme for 2004 and beyond to ascertain what new projects can be progressed through either planning or construction stages, taking account of existing commitments and overall funding resources available. It is in this context that my Department will continue to liaise with the Western Health Board regarding the proposed development in Tuam in the light of the board's overall capital funding priorities.
Pending clarification of the position relating to the capital programme, I am of the view that there would be little point in meeting a deputation from the local group at this stage. I will, however, keep the request in mind for the future.