Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 May 2005
145 Ms Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the call from the IMO for priority to be given to an increase in public bed capacity and that failure to do so would endanger the long term survival of the public health system; her response to the call; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15322/05]
View answerFunding has been provided to open an additional 900 in-patient beds and day places in acute hospitals throughout the country. Health agencies have informed my Department that by 6 May 2005, 780 were in place. The Health Service Executive has informed my Department that the remaining 120 beds places will come on stream during 2005. In addition, extra beds will be provided in the new acute medical units which I announced as part of the accident and emergency services package on the publication of the Estimates for 2005.
