asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure, in view of the waiting list for hospital beds for geriatrics in County Wexford that the 100 bed unit for St. John's Hospital, Enniscorthy, will proceed immediately; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The provision of a new 100 bed unit at St. John's Hospital, Enniscorthy, is a matter for the South Eastern Health Board in the first instance. In view of existing financial constraints, progress on this development will depend on the priority attached to it by the board vis-à-vis its other capital projects. The South Eastern Health Board's priorities in relation to the provision of geriatric accommodation are the replacement of the Sacred Heart Home, Carlow, followed by the replacement of the middle block at St. Joseph's Hospital, Dungarvan.

Is the Minister aware that there has been a long-standing request for canteen facilities in St. John's Hospital? Would he use his good offices to see that this matter is expedited by the health board?

Certainly. I do not see any reference to that matter in this question. The only reference I have there is to money that will be spent for fire precaution measures but I will take up that matter with the health board.