asked the Minister for Health the number of beds for elderly and chronically sick persons per thousand total population in the State in the Dublin Health Authority area; and the corresponding figure in England and Wales, if available.

The information sought by the Deputy in regard to beds for elderly and chronically sick persons per thousand total population is as set out hereunder:—

(a) in the State—4.5,

(b) in the Dublin Health Authority area—4.2,

(c) in England and Wales—3.2.

The rates quoted at (a) and (b) have been calculated by reference to the county home type accommodation provided by local health authorities together with similar accommodation provided for old people by charitable voluntary organisations.

The rate quoted at (c) comprises geriatic hospital beds together with residential accommodation for old people provided by health authorities in England and Wales under the National Assistance Act, 1948.

No account has been taken of patients in psychiatric hospitals in compiling any of these rates.

Is the Minister in a position to say what part of the percentage he mentioned in Ireland is provided by the charities to which he referred?

Approximately 25 per cent.

That is provided by charities, apart from public health institutions?

Yes. When I say 25 per cent or 20 per cent, that is a rough calculation.