Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 10 Feb 1993

Vol. 425 No. 7

Written Answers. - Louth Hospital.

Dermot Ahern

Ceist:

443 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Health if he will give the same commitment, as given by his two predecessors, in regard to the future of the services at Louth County Hospital to ensure that all existing services, including maternity services, will continue to be provided in the hospital; his views on the suggestion by Comhairle na nOispidéal and by other departmental groups that services be withdrawn from Louth County Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The provision and organisation of services at Louth County Hospital is a matter in the first instance for the North-Eastern Health Board. I have received no proposals from the Board in relation to the discontinuation of any services at the hospital. I would like to make it clear that I greatly appreciate the valuable role Louth County Hospital plays in the provision of hospital services in the North-Eastern community and that I am committed to ensuring that the hospital continues to play an important part in the overall provision of hospital services in the North Eastern Health Board region.

I understand that Comhairle na nOspidéal has not yet completed its review of consultant manpower requirement for the North-Eastern Health Board area that the North-Eastern Health Board has not yet finalised its review of services. I will consider these reports when they are submitted to me.