Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2004
177 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she intends to introduce the national standards for disability services; if she will commit funding for the application of these standards (details supplied) in 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29410/04]
View answerThe draft national standards for disability services were recently received from the National Disability Authority and are currently under consideration by the Department, within the framework of the health services reform programme.
178 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she will sell lands adjoining hospitals across the country; the areas the proceeds will go towards; and if the proceeds will remain in each county. [29411/04]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that following the enactment of the Health (Amendment) Act 2004, my consent is now required before health boards can sell or otherwise dispose of lands. The responsibility for the management and utilisation of the health board estate, including lands adjoining State hospitals, is however still vested in the chief executive officer of the health board.
Earlier this year, following requests from my Department, health boards provided some information regarding plans or proposals they have to dispose of lands between now and the coming into force of the new Health Service Executive. The information received from the health boards in relation to these proposed disposals are currently being examined by my Department.
The Deputy will be aware that I am concerned that the proceeds from the sale of any particular land or properties in the health area will be applied and used for health purposes, with the exception of contributions of land to the social and affordable housing initiatives. In addition I am concerned that we now establish the extent of the total surplus land and properties available in the health service and this will require a professional assessment and evaluation of the entire health estate to be performed. In the context of future decisions regarding the locations where sales proceeds may be re-invested or applied, it would be inappropriate to make predictions on such matters in advance of that evaluation exercise.
