asked the Minister for Health if representatives of Comhairle na nOspidéal recently visited Ennis, County Clare; if so, whom they met and what was discussed; and if he will arrange to have representatives of the Comhairle to meet Roscommon Health Committee to discuss hospitalisation in that county.

I understand that, at the request of the Mid-Western Health Board, representatives of Comhairle na nOspidéal visited Ennis on 30th March, 1977, and discussed the question of the provision of a consultant staffed obstetrical and gynaecological unit at Ennis with members and officers of the board and representatives of Clare Local Health Committee.

Comhairle na nOspidéal are an autonomous body established under the Health Act, 1970 and, as such, the question of arranging a discussion with Roscommon Health Committee on the lines suggested by the Deputy would be a matter for the comhairle.

Would the Minister have any objection to such a meeting?

No, but as in the case of Clare Health Committee that request should come through the Mid-Western Health Board. Officials of the Department are meeting tomorrow with members of the Western Health Board.