Vol. 486 No. 2
16 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the current progress regarding the planned phase of Naas general hospital; if he will expedite the project as a matter of extreme urgency in view of the severe overcrowding problems at the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2094/98]
I have now approved the revised phase II development brief for Naas General Hospital. Following detailed discussions between my Department and the Eastern Health Board, I have agreed to the extension of the brief, as compared with the board's original proposal.
As now approved, the brief incorporates the following additional provisions: additional general medical and surgical ward, 31 beds; department of medicine for the elderly; day services unit; department of radiology; operating department; and a department of physical medicine.
The detailed planning of this major new development is now proceeding rapidly. Financial provision has been made in my Department's capital budget and the hospital authorities are now engaged in a process of consultation with the hospital staff regarding the draft development control plan drawings. The Eastern Health Board has assured me that the development is being progressed as quickly as possible.
