Vol. 532 No. 4
358 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on the contents of correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow with regard to services in a hospital (details supplied). [7780/01]
Responsibility for the provision of hospital services to residents of Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. I have, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the issues raised and respond directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency. I also intend to discuss the matter with the Eastern Regional Health Authority and will report back to the Deputy.
My colleague, Deputy Hanafin, Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, announced in July 2000 her approval of a grant of £5 million for a major upgrading programme at St. Columcille's Hospital. This development will include an extension to the existing accident and emergency department and the provision of an extended day hospital unit. A project team is in place to oversee this development. I am satisfied that this investment will contribute to the enhancement of services at the hospital.
