Vol. 529 No. 1
550 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans he has to locate a renal dialysis unit in the Midland Health Board area; if so, if Longford-Westmeath General Hospital would be considered as a suitable location in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1150/01]
724 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans there are to locate a renal dialysis unit in the Midland Health Board area; if Longford-Westmeath General Hospital would be considered as a suitable location in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2281/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 550 and 724 together.
The provision and location of health services for the midland region is a matter in the first instance for the Midland Health Board. I am advised by the board that it has already considered and recognised the need to provide a renal dialysis service for its patients. I am further advised that a ten station dialysis unit is included in the new capital development planned for the general hospital, Tullamore. This project is included in the national development plan and it is hoped that construction of the new facilities will begin by the end of 2001. The provision of additional facilities in Longford/Westmeath is a matter for consideration by the board having regard to its assessment of the overall needs of renal patients in its area.
