asked the Minister for Health whether, in view of the general trend towards the ambulant and domiciliary care of tuberculosis, existing facilities at James Connolly Memorial Hospital, County Dublin can be utilised to better purpose partially or totally; and what plans are envisaged for the future use of the hospital.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Connolly Memorial Hospital (Dublin).
103.
Mr. O'Malley
At the end of last month, 358 beds in this institution were occupied by tuberculosis patients, and it is clear that the facilities provided there for the hospital care of such patients will be required for some time yet. Some of the accommodation is used for the treatment of non-tuberculous conditions, including chest conditions and, more recently, the care of psycho-geriatric cases. At present, 112 beds are occupied in the treatment of all such non-tuberculous cases.
No definite decision has yet been taken about the long term use of this hospital, but the matter is under continuous review by the health authority and the Department.