Ivor Callely
Ceist:62 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the matters under consideration with a Dublin hospital regarding St. Bricin's military hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26852/98]
Written Answers. - St. Bricin's Military Hospital.
The Deputy will be aware that a number of meetings have taken place between my Department and a major Dublin hospital with a view to using St. Bricin's military hospital as a step down medical facility into which certain categories of non-military patients could be transferred.
There is agreement in principle on the introduction of a pilot scheme under which up to eight civilian patients would be accommodated in St. Bricin's for periods ranging from seven to ten days. Some preparatory work has already been carried out in St. Bricin's in anticipation of the implementation of this project.
It was recognised by all parties involved that certain issues regarding liability to compensation claims, and the status of patients would have to be resolved before the pilot scheme could commence. Also, the question of the statutory basis for using a military hospital for the accommodation and treatment of civilian patients has arisen. This matter is the subject of detailed discussion between the Office of the Attorney General, the Department of Health and Children and my Department.
I remain committed to the successful implementation of the pilot scheme and the matter will be progressed as quickly as possible.