Vol. 471 No. 7
162 Dr. Moffatt asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to improve security in accident and emergency departments of hospitals; his views on a recent incident in the Mater Hospital where dangers were posed to patients and hospital staff by a prisoner; if he will ensure that the necessary resources are provided to avoid such dangers in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21837/96]
Limerick East): I very much deplore the recent incident at the Mater Hospital and I understand that the hospital is currently involved in discussions with the Department of Justice and the prison authorities with a view to examining and improving the security arrangements for the provision of hospital care to prisoners.
Health boards and voluntary hospitals, including the Mater Hospital, have been putting security facilities in place over the last number of years. These initiatives have been supported by my Department and security arrangements in hospitals will continue to be reviewed in the light of prevailing circumstances.
