asked the Minister for Health the details of his policy regarding the two private hospitals in Limerick city, namely, Barrington's Hospital and St. John's Hospital.
Written Answers. - Limerick City Hospitals.
I am awaiting proposals from the MidWestern Health Board regarding the future organisation of general hospital services in the board's area. I will consider carefully the position regarding the two hospitals referred to by the Deputy in relation to such proposals and I propose consulting the authorities of the hospitals before deciding on matters affecting the hospitals.
In the meantime, the two hospitals are considering a formal amalgamation but there are some legal difficulties to be overcome and the hospitals have agreed to co-operate in the provision of certain services pending resolution of these difficulties. Arrangements are currently in train to centralise outpatient services at St. John's Hospital and casualty services at Barrington's Hospital. I fully support these measures.