Vol. 541 No. 2
488 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of plans to provide long stay beds at Castlecomer Hospital, County Kilkenny; if he has sanctioned funds; if the contractor has been appointed; if the plans to extend the hospital and construct homes for the elderly have been prepared; the stage at which the plans are; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21620/01]
The provision of health services in County Kilkenny is a matter for the South-Eastern Health Board. The South-Eastern Health Board has advised that it has approved and funded the development of four additional beds in Castlecomer District Hospital. Tenders for this work have been received and final arrangements will be made by the board with the contractor in relation to the commencement of the building work.
I also understand that the board has offered a local community group the opportunity to develop homes for the elderly at Castlecomer District Hospital. It is understood that this offer is being considered by the community group.
