Vol. 542 No. 1
101 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the criteria for the establishment of a community hospital; if he will provide specific funds for a community hospital in the area; and if, in the interim, his Department will sanction funds for the Southern Health Board to continue the operation of the McAuley Nursing Home until such time as a community hospital can be provided. [23605/01]
The provision of health services in County Cork is a matter for the Southern Health Board. The board has advised that under its development plan for services for older people entitled Ageing with Confidence, it recognises that older people need a continuum of care, with options ranging from supported living in the community to continuing care. Continuing care for older people should be provided as close as possible to where they live so that they can maintain their network of family, friends and interests.
Under the National Development Plan 2001-2006, the Southern Health Board was advised of indicative funding of £35.487 million – euro equivalent 45.06 million – for capital investment in the development of services for older people. It is a matter for the board to decide its priority development projects within the national development plan.
In relation to the McAuley Nursing Home, the Southern Health Board is working closely with the facilitator appointed by the Mercy Sisters to ensure that the transfer of patients to alternative suitable accommodation is carried out in an appropriate manner and plans are progressing in this regard.
