asked the Minister for Health whether he has yet come to a decision as to the desirability of utilising the former Roscrea Sanatorium for the treatment of mentally handicapped children; if not, when he expects to reach such a decision; and whether, in the event of his deciding against this proposal, he will consider permitting the county council to use the building as a home for elderly people.

The proposal to utilise the Roscrea Sanatorium for the care and treatment of mentally handicapped children is still under discussion with the interested parties. It is not yet possible to say with certainty when a decision will be reached.

Should the former sanatorium not be used for this purpose, I would be prepared to consider the proposal mentioned by the Deputy, if made to me by the health authority.