Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 18 Nov 1998

Vol. 496 No. 7

Written Answers. - Hospitals Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

173 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when construction work will commence on the development plan for Naas general hospital, County Kildare; when work will be completed; when the new facilities will be available for utilisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24160/98]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

185 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps, if any, he has taken in recent times to alleviate overcrowding at Naas hospital, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24196/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 173 and 185 together.

As the Deputy is aware, measures have been introduced by the Eastern Health Board in response to the increased activity at Naas General Hospital. These measures, which include the appointment of additional staff, have impacted positively In relieving the pressure on hospital services, particularly over the past number of months. The situation will continue to be monitored closely by hospital management at Naas in consultation with nursing and medical staff to ensure the effective delivery of hospital services to all patients.

With regard to the major development at the hospital I am pleased to inform the Deputy that it is at an advanced stage. A target date of mid-1999 has been identified for commencement of construction with the major portion of the works to be completed by end year 2000 when a phased handover of the new facilities will commence. It is anticipated that the entire development will be completed in the year 2001.