Gerry O'Sullivan
Ceist:78 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if he will make funding available for the replacement of vital equipment at the Cork Regional Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Hospital Equipment Expenditure.
The current policy of my Department is that the cost of replacement medical equipment should, with the exception of major items, be met from the non-capital allocations of the health boards. However, the question of making a special capital provision on a once-off basis for major replacement equipment is being considered at present and the extent and timing of this will depend on the availability of resources.
However, agencies are aware that, whenever the replacement of equipment is vital to the continuity of patient care, my Department will always endeavour to find ways and means of maintaining the service.