Vol. 483 No. 2
135 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children whether his attention has been drawn to the serious overcrowding at Naas General Hospital, County Kildare; the steps, if any, he will take to alleviate this overcrowding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20010/97]
I am aware of current difficulties at Naas General Hospital. In an effort to reduce inconvenience to patients, I understand that the hospital has recently undertaken a number of initiatives as follows: appointment of a consultant surgeon and a consultant physician, provision of a new day ward to free up in-patient beds previously used for day case procedures; provision of a fully equipped observation room in the accident and emergency department to accommodate six patients — this facility is currently being extended to provide for up to 13 patients; appointment of a bed manager to ensure the most efficient use of in-patient beds, and assignment of extra medical and nursing staff to the A & E department.
As the Deputy is aware the planning process for the phase II development at the hospital is being progressed as quickly as possible. I am confident that the improvement of patient facilities at Naas General Hospital together with the construction of the new hospital at Tallaght will help to ensure the delivery of an efficient and high quality health care service for patients in this catchment area.
