asked the Minister for Health when it is now proposed to open the Training Centre for the Handicapped at Bawnmore, Limerick.

As I indicated to the House some weeks ago, because of the priority which has to be accorded in the allocation of funds in present circumstances to the maintenance of existing services, I regret that it has not been possible to make an allocation for the opening of this unit.

In the meantime, however, I have allocated a grant to the Brothers of Charity to cover the cost of the maintenance and security of the buildings after they have been handed over by the builder.

Is the Minister aware that this building has been finished and ready since last March and that it cost more than £2 million? I gather there are hundreds waiting for admission. In view of that, would the Minister make a special effort to get the centre opened?

I appreciate what the Deputy has said but as I explained in reply to earlier questions, the health board have not got the finances with which to open the unit. I could not nor would I promise that the unit would be financed through the Department of Health, in this year in any case.

Can the Minister say if there is any way open to him to help the health board to get the centre opened?

I explained already that I have not got the money to give to the health board to open the unit.