Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2003

Vol. 571 No. 1

Written Answers. - Respite Care Services.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

984 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the problems in regard to assessment and respite care placements in the Kildare-west Wicklow area due to the closure of the assessment-respite unit at St. Vincent's Hospital, Athy; the plans he has to rectify the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20920/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. Callely)

Responsibility for the provision of health services in Kildare-West Wicklow is a matter for the South Western Area Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. The board has confirmed to my Department that, as a result of negotiations, respite services will be continued at the hospital, with nine beds now being dedicated for this purpose.