Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 10 Mar 1993

Vol. 427 No. 7

Written Answers. - Beds in Children's Hospitals.

Jim Mitchell

Ceist:

143 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health his views on whether too many bed closures in children's hospitals occur in summertime when most children who require hospitalisation would be free of school pressures to go into hospital; if he will agree to open up more beds in children's hospitals in summertime; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The provision of acute hospital services is a matter for each health board and voluntary hospital having regard to their competing service priorities and the resources at their disposal. Seasonal closures are not unusual and, indeed, are part and parcel of the provision and organisation of hospital services throughout the country. Summertime closures are often planned to coincide with staff annual leave and when the level of activity at the hospital has traditionally decreased.

In relation to paediatrics the peak demand is usually during the winter months due to respiratory problems and chest infections.

I am not aware of any problems in relation to availability of paediatric beds in summertime.