Vol. 470 No. 1
158 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the problem of serious overcrowding at a health centre (details supplied) in Dublin 11; if his attention has further been drawn to the significant difficulties which this causes to clients and health board staff; if he will favourably consider an application for special funding for the extension and refurbishment of this centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18319/96]
Limerick East): As the Deputy will be aware the provision of health centres is a matter for the health boards in the first instance. The Eastern Health Board is acutely aware that the Ballymun health centre is inadequate at present to meet the needs and demands of present day requirements for the delivery of health and social services.
I understand from the board that it has had a feasibility study carried out for an extension to the existing health centre and the various options available have been examined. The board is currently advancing planning procedures for the proposed development which would double the size of the existing facility and cost in the region of £1 million. The question of funding for this project will be considered in the context of the board's health centre priority list and available capital finances.
