asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he is aware that, some years ago, a plot of land was acquired by the former North Cork Board of Health for the erection of a cottage hospital at Charleville, County Cork, and that at that time plans were prepared; and whether, in view of the necessity for such a hospital in Charleville, he will state if it is intended to have it erected in the near future.

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The provision of this hospital is not regarded as a matter of urgency, particularly in view of the fact that the new county hospital at Mallow, which has been handed back to the county council, will shortly be available for the reception of patients from Charleville.