asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that the Sligo county manager has ordered the closure of St. John of God old persons' home, Ballymote, County Sligo, under the fire protection regulations; that this is the only home for old persons in south Sligo; and that there is no other suitable accommodation for the 30 or more elderly people from south Sligo now being cared for at the home; and if, in view of these considerations, he will make funds available this year so that work can commence immediately on the construction of a new home in accordance with the plans and specifications already with his Department.
Written Answers. - County Sligo Old Persons' Home.
478.
I am not so aware. I am informed that there is a fire safety problem in this home and that the county manager has been in communication with the authorities responsible for the home in regard to certain interim and longer-term measures to resolve the problem.
So far as I am concerned, I am aware of the need to replace this home as early as possible. So far, it has not been possible for me to provide funds to enable planning of the accommodation, to replace this home, to be completed and construction commenced. I am, however, having this project specially considered with a view to determining whether it would be possible to provide the necessary finances at an early date.