asked the Minister for Health if he will honour the promise made in 1979 by the then Minister for Health to retain Longford General Hospital.
Written Answers. - Longford General Hospital.
287.
The question of the future of Longford County Hospital is a matter in the first instance for the Midland Health Board. In this regard the health board have agreed unanimously that a casualty unit should be provided in Longford to replace the existing hospital facilities. This unit would provide a casualty service, facilities for day hospital procedures and convalescent surgical beds for Longford patients. The operational details of this proposal have yet to be clarified but I will be giving my agreement in principle to the course recommended by the health board.
I am, of course, well aware that many promises were made in the past in relation to Longford Hospital and other hospitals. However, I have to take decisions on the basis of what is practicable and reasonable and I am satisfied that the approach now recommended by the health board is the best course to take in the present circumstances.