Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 6 Jun 1990

Vol. 399 No. 7

Written Answers. - Rationalisation of Acute Hospital Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

145 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if he will outline his proposals in respect of general-acute hospital development for the next ten years for the Dublin and greater Dublin area including County Kildare; if these plans include the closure of any existing hospitals or the opening of new hospitals; the number of beds involved in each case; if he expects that the proposals will be sufficient to accommodate the needs of the area having regard to the current demand and projected population increases; if the development represents an increase-decrease on the number of hospital beds; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

A comprehensive review in 1987 led to plans being drawn up by my Department in conjunction with Comhairle na nOspidéal regarding the rationalisation of acute hospital services.

In respect of the Eastern Health Board area, including Kildare, this rationalisation includes the provision of replacement beds at the Mater and St. James's Hospitals and further development of services at Naas Hospital and James Connolly Memorial Hospital, Blanchardstown.

The provision of the major new Tallaght Hospital will involve the transfer of the 517 beds at present provided in the Meath, Adelaide and the National Children's Hospitals.

Discussions are currently taking place with regard to the transfer from the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital of the ophthalmic service to St. Vincent's Hospital, Elm Park, and the ENT service to St. James's and Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin. Approximately 84 beds are involved in this transfer.

As a result of these initiatives, I am satisfied that the level of service provision should be adequate for the Eastern Health Board area including County Kildare. I have no plans for further hospital closures other than those already announced.