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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 17 Dec 1996

Vol. 473 No. 1

Written Answers. - Killarney (Kerry) Hospital.

John O'Leary

Ceist:

54 Mr. O'Leary asked the Minister for Health the proposals, if any, before his Department for the disposal by the Southern Health Board of St. Finan's Hospital, Killarney, County Kerry; if so, if such proposals indicate the approximate month and year of sale; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23887/96]

Limerick East): The Southern Health Board is responsible for the delivery of health services, including mental health services, in County Kerry. I am informed by the board that the development of mental health services in County Kerry has been clearly outlined and planned in the board's four year action plan which was adopted in May 1995. The plan in relation to County Kerry envisages the establishment of comprehensive new community facilities including a range of residential and day services which will replace the services currently provided at in-patient accommodation in St. Finan's Hospital, Killarney. Such developments are in line with the key recommendations of the report on the development of the mental health services, “Planning for the Future” (1984), which has been accepted as mental health policy by successive Governments.

The plan to develop fully the new community service in conjunction with the reduction of in-patient numbers at St. Finan's Hospital, currently standing at approximately 250, is in the process of being implemented. These numbers will need to be reduced significantly, through development of alternative community-based facilities as resources permit, before the board will be in a position to commence arrangements for the disposal of the property.

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