Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 May 2005
142 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she is now in a position to approve the appointment of a design team as requested by the Health Service Executive in December 2004 in connection with the proposed redevelopment of St. Anthony’s Community Hospital, Dunmanway, including its enlargement from 23 to 45 beds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13912/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, HSE, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services.
The HSE service plan for 2005 was recently approved by me and, as required by relevant legislation, laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. The detailed capital funding programme for hospitals for 2005 is being finalised in the context of the capital investment framework 2005-09. This process will be concluded in the near future and the HSE will then be in a position to progress its capital programme, in line with overall funding resources available for 2005 or beyond. A decision on the appointment of a design team for the proposed redevelopment at St. Anthony's Community Hospital, Dunmanway, will be made by the HSE in the context of the approved capital framework.
