Michael Ring
Ceist:274 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will provide funding for a respite or day care home for the elderly in Killeen, Louisburgh, County Mayo, in view of the population ratio in that area. [5535/99]
Written Answers. - Respite Care.
As the Deputy is aware, the provision of services for older people in the Mayo area is a matter in the first instance for the Western Health Board. The health board accepts that the demographic features of the area include a higher than average elderly population but that the area is presently served by the McBride Community Nursing Unit in Westport where there is an existing day service and respite care. Long-stay accommodation is provided in the Sacred Heart Hospital, Castlebar. The health board states that a separate service provision in Louisburgh, County Mayo may be reviewed as warranted following assessment by the board.