I propose to take Questions Nos. 109 and 110 together.
In July last year my Department conveyed approval to the Midland Health Board for the establishment of a project team to undertake an option appraisal for a health service infrastructure in Athlone. The board has informed me that work on preparation of brief and option appraisal studies is progressing satisfactorily. All aspects of the health infrastructure are being considered and the project team hopes to complete its work by April 2001. It is only at that stage that the brief will specify the elements of the health infrastructure.
In the circumstances, therefore, I cannot say at this stage whether a new casualty unit will be included.
I should mention that there is a GP out-of-hours unit based in Athlone District Hospital. Future developments of this service will be considered in the context of the board's overall strategy for the provision of primary care out-of-hours service.