asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the urgent need for ultrasound B - scan machine for the diagnosis of retinal conditions in the eye department of Ardkeen Regional Hospital, Waterford; and if he is aware that this equipment has been on the priority list for the hospital for over three years; if he will make moneys available for its purchase; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Ardkeen, Waterford Hospital Equipment.
78.
I am aware the equipment in question was included in extensive lists of equipment for Ardkeen and other board hospitals for which the South Eastern Health Board sought capital grants in 1985 and 1986. The equipment named was not indicated as having a greater priority than any other equipment so listed.
Grants totalling some £479,000 were provided this year in respect of equipment for Ardkeen alone. I will consider the provision of a grant next year towards the purchase of the ultrasound B - scan machine, if the request is renewed by the board with an appropriate priority rating.