asked the Minister for Health when finance will be made available for the construction of a welfare home in Roscommon town.

I am not in a position to indicate when finance will be made available for the planning and construction of a welfare home in Roscommon town. A decision in regard to this will depend on the availability of capital resources and the priority accorded to the project by the Western Health Board.

I am both appalled and shocked——

A question, Deputy.

Is the Minister aware that there is grave need for a welfare home in Roscommon? There is a long waiting list——

A question, Deputy.

Is the Minister aware of the big demand for places in welfare homes in Roscommon? Is she aware of the long waiting list and it is such an effort to get through the health board, the matron and everyone else that one could be dead before getting into a welfare home?

I can assure the Deputy I will give this matter the most able consideration I can when I am aware of what plans are available.