asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that the extension to the new maternity unit at St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny, will not be opened as no staff have been authorised by him; and that the hospital consultative committee had written to the programme manager to confirm that it would not be possible to redeploy staff to open the extension; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - County Kilkenny Hospitals.
472.
The staffing arrangement for the new maternity unit at St. Luke's Hospital is primarily a matter for the South Eastern Health Board.
The board, in common with all other health agencies, must operate within current staffing and financial constraints. Accordingly, it is not possible for me to authorise the creation of new posts in this case. I am aware that the programme manager has been informed by the hospital consultative committee that it will not be possible to redeploy staff within the hospital. However, in present circumstances, the staffing needs of the new extention will have to be met by a redeployment of manpower resources from institutions or services within the board's area and I have invited the board to submit proposals on these lines.
473.
asked the Minister for Health when approval will be given for a new boiler for St. Columba's Hospital, Thomastown, County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
In the context of capital schemes in progress in the area, the relatively low priority accorded to this scheme has ruled out the provision of the necessary capital funds.
In the current difficult financial situation it is not possible for me to indicate when the replacement of the boiler can be approved.