Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 March 2019
32. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Health if ward 1A in University Hospital Limerick is to close in a number of weeks, which would result in the loss of 17 inpatient beds and add further pressure to the overcrowding situation in the hospital. [12171/19]
View answerThis question follows on from Question No. 2, which was taken earlier. Having spoken to nurses' unions, I understand there is a concern that University Hospital Limerick will lose 17 inpatient beds in the coming weeks due to the closure of ward 1A. The Minister of State announced earlier that five additional beds are being provided under the winter programme. He also mentioned that 17 beds have opened in another ward. My understanding is that ward 1A is to be closed. The Minister of State might confirm whether this is the case.
I outlined earlier that "an additional 23 beds have opened in Limerick, including five as part of this year’s winter plan". As the Deputy has said, 17 beds have been provided outside of that. I do not have the details of the closure to which the Deputy has referred.
This question relates to the closure of 17 inpatient beds.
Is it okay with the Deputy if I come back to him on the particular question he is asking?
That is fine.
The next available question is Question No. 36, in the name of Deputy Calleary.
