asked the Minister for Health whether he has yet decided that the County Hospital, Monaghan should remain as an active general medical, surgical and maternity unit.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Monaghan County Hospital.
6.
I am at present considering the views of the joint working groups and the health administrative bodies concerned on the future general hospital development programme for the country at large. Until I have completed this examination and have consulted with the other members of the Government it would be inappropriate for me to make a statement in relation to a particular hospital.
When does the Minister expect that his examination, so far as the country at large is concerned, will be completed?
I could not give a definite date but I may say to the Deputy that there are various views from various counties as distinct from various health boards. The advisory committees, which are comprised of members from the various counties, seem in some cases to be in disagreement with the opinion either of the health board, Comhairle na nOispidéal, or the regional health boards. I could not give the Deputy a firm date.
Would the Minister think it would be a matter of months. or longer?
I could not give the Deputy any more information. I do not want to commit myself to a date at this stage.