Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:80 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Health and Children when Tallaght Hospital, Dublin 24 will be opened. [19833/97]
Written Answers. - Tallaght (Dublin) Hospital.
I have requested the board of the Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin incorporating the National Children's Hospital to consider a phased opening of the new hospital at Tallaght with the majority of the services being transferred by May of next year. I have also asked that the hospital ensure that the St. Loman's service should transfer as soon as possible.
I am committed to ensuring that the hospital should open at the earliest opportunity. I have met the board of the hospital in this regard and it is in no doubt as to my views and requirements. The Department has requested comprehensive and detailed plans from the board of the Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin incorporating the National Children's Hospital for the opening of the new hospital as soon as possible. These plans are scheduled for discussion between the Department and the hospital early next week. On receipt of the plans for opening and following the discussions with the board the precise details as to the hospital's opening will be clearer.