asked the Minister for Health when a new sector hospital for South Tipperary will be provided; and where it will be sited.
Written Answers. - South Tipperary Hospital.
661.
Present plans for the development of general hospitals in the South Eastern Health Board area envisage the provision of a general hospital in South Tipperary at Cashel or Clonmel.
The Deputy will appreciate that as the issue of location of the general hospital is of major importance to the people of the area it is essential that a decision should be taken only after a thorough examination of all the factors involved. I have discussed the matter with representatives of the South Eastern Health Board and I will take full account of their views and those of all other parties concerned before reaching a final decision as to the location of the hospital.
It is not possible at present to indicate when major general hospital developments can take place in the area as this has to be determined in the light of capital funds available and in the context of other priorities within the South Eastern Health Board area and in the country as a whole.