asked the Minister for Health if he is now in a position to confirm that Mallow County Hospital, County Cork, will be upgraded with suitable surgical services; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
9.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hospital Development Programme.
7.
asked the Minister for Health when a decision will be made on the future of the hospitals in the Midland Health Board area.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 9 together.
I am at present considering the comments received from the various health administrative bodies and local health committees on the recommendations made on the future hospital development programme for the country as a whole by the joint working groups representing Comhairle na nOspidéal, the regional hospital boards and the health boards. Until I have completed my examination of the views submitted by the various bodies concerned it would not be appropriate for me to make a statement in relation to a particular area or hospital. I can assure the Deputies that I will make a statement on the hospital development programme as soon as I can do so after full consideration of all the factors involved.
Is the Minister aware of reports which have circulated widely in provincial newspapers, and which emanated from the Irish Medical Times, that a decision has been reached to maintain the Mallow and Nenagh county hospitals with all necessary surgical services? In view of this, does the Minister not think he could confirm that such a decision has been taken in order to alleviate any uncertainty?
I cannot give any guarantee in respect of any hospital. As I said in my reply, I must examine the reports, comments and advice given to me by the working party.
When does the Minister expect he will be able to give a decision on the matter?
I cannot give the Deputy a date.
Will it be before the 18th?
What is the significance of the 18th?
The Minister must know that.
Will the Minister state if the report that appeared in the Irish Medical Times is correct?
I have said no decision has been made in respect of any hospital in the country.
Does this indicate that the report is correct?
I am calling Question No. 8.