asked the Minister for Health why sanction was refused to Cork Health Authority for the purchase of automatic processing X-ray equipment.

On 7th February last I approved the proposal of Cork Health Authority to the purchase of an automatic processor for use in St. Finbarr's Hospital. On 20th March last I refused sanction to a proposal to provide similar type of equipment at the County Hospital, Mallow, on the grounds that the volume of X-ray work there would not justify the provision of a unit of this type. However, I have recently received further representations from Cork Health Authority and I am reviewing the matter.