Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 October 2015
288. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which he can ensure the availability of the maximum number of extra step-down beds in both public and private hospitals and nursing homes in order to ensure early availability and to alleviate overcrowding in accident and emergency units in general hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37108/15]
View answer289. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the total number of step-down beds available in both the private and public sectors; the extent to which these beds are now available to meet requirements throughout the winter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37109/15]
View answer290. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the reason efforts are not being made to reopen the currently decommissioned wards at St. Brigid's hospital in Crooksling in County Dublin given the acute scarcity of step-down beds and that the buildings in question are in good basic structural condition, and while costs are being incurred to reduce the capacity of the wards currently in use; if immediate steps can be taken to inspect the property with a view to bringing the disused wards back into service, given the high quality and standard of care available because of the dedication of the staff and local support groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37110/15]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 288 to 290, inclusive, together.
As these are service matters they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply. If you have not received a reply within 15 working days, please contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.
