Vol. 490 No. 6
55 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals, if any, he has to establish a dedicated rheumatology department and section with an adequate bed complement in the south east region at Ardkeen General Hospital, County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10898/98]
As part of the process of commissioning new units completed under the major capital re-development at Waterford Regional Hospital, my Department has provided additional funding in 1997 and 1998 to enable the appointment of a consultant rheumatologist at the hospital, who took up duty in February 1997. I understand from the South-Eastern Health Board that it is intended that eight beds in a recently opened new ward will be dedicated to the rheumatology department. My Department will continue to work with the South-Eastern Health Board to ensure the development of the hospital's rheumatology service having regard to the board's overall priorities and the availability of funding.
