Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 July 2013
252. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on plans for the emergency department at St. Columcille's Hospital, Loughlinstown, County Dublin; if he will confirm that it is now the case that this department will remain open for an extended period; if he will provide details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33849/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI published the Framework for Smaller Hospitals - Securing the Future of Smaller Hospitals: A Framework for Development, and the Hospital Groups Report on 14 May 2013. This Framework offers clear information about the role of our smaller hospitals, including St Colmcille's Hospital, and what they will do in the future. Hospital groups will be required to submit a strategic plan within one year of establishment which will outline its plans for future services within the group area, including those to be delivered in each smaller hospital. In relation to the particular query raised by the Deputy, regarding an update on plans for the emergency Department at St. Colmcille's Hospital, as this is a service issue, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy in this matter.
