asked the Minister for Health the Government's policy in respect of St. Patrick's Hospital, Fermoy, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

It is the Government's policy to provide sufficient accommodation of a suitable type and standard to meet the needs of patients who require extended nursing-residential care. Progress in this area is, of course, dependent on the availability of capital resources.

Following discussions between officers of my Department and the Southern Health Board regarding the development of a new unit at St. Patrick's Hospital, Fermoy, I have received further proposals from the board on how the scheme might be proceeded with as a matter or urgency. I am currently examining these proposals and my Department will be getting in touch with the Southern Health Board as soon as possible on the matter.

Can I take if from the Minister's reply that the establishment of a new 50 bed unit at Fermoy is a priority and that the matter will be expedited?

The health board have submitted new proposals and they are being looked at at present. As soon as we have further discussions with the health board we will be able to make a decision.

The building of a new 50 bed unit to replace the existing building at Fermoy hospital has been under discussion and there has been a lot of pushing and shoving——

A question, Deputy.

The matter has not been dealt with adequately. I appeal to the Minister to have it expedited. It is a good geriatric unit and its development is important.