Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 28 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 6

Written Answers. - Hospitals Building Programme.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

259 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the current position in relation to the Bandon Community Hospital, County Cork; the number of additional beds approved; when the extension is likely to be under way and completed; and the approximate budget for the work proposed. [27323/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The provision of health services in County Cork is a matter for the Southern Health Board. I understand from the board that building work associated with providing an additional day room at Bandon community hospital and the refurbishment of the external fabric of the building, including re-roofing and re-plastering, is due to be completed shortly.

The implementation plans for the board's recently adopted strategy, Ageing with Confidence for the People of Cork and Kerry, include provision for a 17 bed extension to Bandon community hospital at a cost of £2.7 million. The board, at its August meeting, considered and agreed recommendations from the chief execu tive officer prioritising the approved projects for progression during the lifetime of the National Development Plan, 2001-2006. Bandon community hospital is included in this list. It is anticipated that planning will commence early in 2001.