asked the Minister for Health the up-to-date position regarding progress on the replacement of the existing Ardkeen Hospital, County Waterford by a new general hospital.

Work is proceeding on the planning of the redevelopment of Ardkeen Hospital. It is at an advanced stage and I expect it to be completed early next year.

Would the Minister confirm that work on this hospital will continue and that the funds which were allocated for this year will be spent on the planning process?

I have no doubt that will be the case. I have already told the Deputy that it is at an advanced stage and I expect it to be completed early next year.

I know the previous Government allocated an amount of money to this particular project in this year. Will the Minister say if that money will be provided for the hospital this year or are we faced with a situation like one or two which have been mentioned where money which was actually set aside will not now be provided? Will the Minister clarify the position?

I do not accept that money which was set aside is not now being provided. I cannot give a more categoric answer on this until I know what money is available to me.

I must point out in relation to Question No. 8 that the money to commence the contract, which is obviously held up at the moment, was provided. The money is there and the Department's officials can confirm this for the Minister.