andMr. Aylward asked the Minister for Health the plans he has to allow the South-Eastern Health Board to provide staffing for the new gynaecology unit at St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny which was recently completed at a cost of £230,000 and which is now lying idle; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Kilkenny Hospital Staffing.
376.
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 had been informed by the hospital consultative committee that it will not be possible to re-deploy staff within the hospital. However, in present circumstances, the staffing needs of the new extension 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.