asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the frustration and despair experienced by the people in the Castlerea area of County Roscommon, due to the inactivity of his Department in not providing a geriatric home in the area, despite the fact that this home has been sanctioned; and the up to date position regarding this matter.

46.

asked the Minister for Health the progress to date in relation to the provision of a geriatric home for Castlerea, County Roscommon; if he is aware of the hardship being endured by old people who are awaiting provision of this amenity; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 45 and 46 together.

I do not accept that my Department has been inactive in relation to this matter. The provision of a welfare home and day care centre in Castlerea has been approved. Following recent discussions with officers of the health board, revised documentation has just been received in my Department and I hope it will be possible to clear this with the health board within the next week or so. I expect that this project can be brought to tender stage in about three months.