Gerry O'Sullivan
Ceist:220 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if he will outline his plans for the future of the eye, ear and throat hospital building in Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cork Hospital Building.
The Southern Health Board acquired the Cork Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital building in 1989. It is a matter for the Southern Health Board to determine the future of this building. Initially, it was considered, by the Southern Health Board, as a site for the unified maternity unit in Cork in conjunction with the Erinville Hospital which adjoins it. A feasibility study was carried out on the suitability of this combined site. A second feasibility study was also carried out by the board on the suitability of the St. Finbarr's Hospital site as a location for the unified maternity service. I understand that no decision will be made by the board in the matter pending the availability of the report of the working group which was established to review acute hospital services in Cork. The group are expected to complete their work in the near future.