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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 7 Aug 1940

Vol. 80 No. 17

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Medical Facilities in West Cork.

asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware that there has not been for some years a medical officer of health or medical practitioner resident in the Durras dispensary district of West Cork; that some of the inhabitants of this district reside over 20 miles from the nearest medical practitioner and that over that distance there is no rail or bus service, and, if so, if he will take immediate steps to have the serious danger to the life and health of the inhabitants of this district removed by appointing a medical officer who will reside in the district.

I am aware that the medical officer of Durras and Kilcrohane dispensary district has been obliged since his appointment about two years ago to reside outside his district on account of his being unable to procure a suitable residence or accommodation within the district.

As regards the latter part of the question, I have received no complaints in regard to the adequacy of medical services in the dispensary district. I am addressing a communication to the board of health and public assistance in this matter.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary deal with the local authority in the matter and get the local authority to see that a house is provided? I take it he admits that the facts are as stated in the question.

The local authority will be encouraged to provide a residence within the district but the onus is on them to take initiative in the matter. A communication will issue to the local authority directing their attention to the fact that a residence has not been provided and does not appear to be available in the district. It will be up to the local authority then to take steps in the matter.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that in another public health area in the country his Department compelled the local authority to build a house even when the local authority deemed it inexpedient to do so?

The Minister may take similar action in the case at present under discussion eventually.

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