asked the Minister for Health why an isolation unit and a paediatric unit have not been erected at Ardkeen General Hospital, County Waterford as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Waterford Hospital.
4.
I understand from the South Eastern Health Board that temporary isolation facilities for critically ill children have recently been made available in Ardkeen Hospital, Waterford.
Discussions have taken place between officers of my Department and officers of the health board concerning the provision of a regional paediatric service based on Ardkeen Hospital. I understand that this whole matter will be considered by the health board at their meeting tomorrow and I look forward to agreement being reached about the way in which this important development of services in the area should be tackled.
Can the Minister give an assurance to the House that if the Regional Health Board agree to have a regional unit based at Ardkeen, County Waterford, money will be made available for the erection of the unit?
I will endeavour to provide the finances.