asked the Minister for Health when it is envisaged that work will commence at St. Vincent's Hospital, Athlone, County Westmeath, to implement the decision to site an orthopaedic centre there for the midlands; the nature and scope of the work carried out in this unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Midlands Orthopaedic Centre.
10.
As the Deputy is aware, I have given approval in principle to the Midland Health Board to have an orthopaedic unit established at Athlone District Hospital. A meeting between my Department and officials from the board is due to be held shortly to examine all the implications involved in this development. Until the details have been worked out it will not be possible to say when work will commence at the hospital.
When operational, the unit will provide orthopaedic services for the whole of the Midland Health Board area and will have the support services necessary to function efficiently.