Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 11 Jun 1998

Vol. 492 No. 3

Written Answers. - Psychiatric Services.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

52 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will give consideration to the tender submitted in 1996 for the provision of an acute psychiatric unit at St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny, in view of the urgency of the development and the positive multiplier effect such an investment will have on the development of medical services in Kilkenny and the region and the fact that the South Eastern Health Board is at an advanced stage of negotiation with one contractor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13909/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The South-Eastern Health Board is responsible for the delivery of health services, including mental health services, in its catchment area. I have made enquiries of the board in relation to the provision of the acute psychiatric unit at St Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny and I understand that, in view of the time which has elapsed since receipt of the original tenders, the Board is now proposing to readvertise for contractors for the project.