Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2004
129 Mr. Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the land at the grounds of a hospital (details supplied) in County Laois will not be sold off in view of the strategic importance of these lands in the centre of Portlaoise and the valuable use that these grounds can be put to for the general health and well being of the community. [28669/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that following the enactment of the Health (Amendment) Act 2004, the change in legislation now requires health boards to obtain the consent of the Minister for Health and Children before they may sell or otherwise dispose of lands. The Midland Health Board, in accordance with section 15 of the Act, have advised me of some proposals to dispose of land at St. Fintan's Hospital, Portlaoise, which would require my consent. The responsibility for the management and utilisation of the health board estate however still rests with the chief executive officer of the health board.
In that context, the proposals to dispose of lands have been developed by the Midland Health Board in line with the policy and guiding principles set down for the future utilisation of the landbank at St. Fintan's Hospital, and these proposals are currently under consideration within my Department. The Deputy will also be aware that I am concerned that the sale of land or properties in the health area will be applied and used for health purposes, with the exception of contributions to the social and affordable housing initiatives.
