Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 April 2004
278 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding provided by his Department for the hospital refurbishment in Birr, County Offaly; the number of beds available in the hospital; the number of employees in the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10466/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI presume the Deputy is referring to the new Birr community nursing unit on which I am delighted to indicate good progress. A new 90-bed community nursing unit is being provided in Birr, County Offaly, at an overall projected sum in the region of €22 million, which includes site acquisition, construction, equipping, fees and any other associated costs. Issues relating to the appropriate levels of staff for the new unit are the subject of ongoing discussion between the Midland Health Board and staff representatives. I am, however, hopeful that these discussions can be completed at an early date, so that the Midland Health Board can proceed with the opening of the unit.
