Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 February 2005
76 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to the opening of a psychiatric unit in Beaumont Hospital; when the proposal for this unit was first initiated; and when it is likely that it will be fully open. [5616/05]
View answerThe Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of mental health services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the HSE eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
77 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the flaws which have been identified by the inspector of mental hospitals in respect of the facilities at St. Ita’s, Portrane; if her Department has agreed with the health board a critical path for the modernisation and upgrading of these facilities; if she plans to intervene to speed up the planning process in view of the lengthy delay in getting to grips with problems which have been identified over a long period. [5617/05]
View answerThe provision of facilities at St. Ita's Hospital, Portrane, is a matter to be addressed in the context of the Health Service Executive's national service plan, which will indicate its proposed capital plan for this year. I expect this plan will be presented shortly.
