North Infirmary casualty and emergency services
Allen asked whether funds would be provided to modernise the North Infirmary casualty department, and the Minister said resources needed for Cork hospital development in 1986 would be made available. Lyons sought guarantees that accident and emergency services would not be impeded; the Minister said the report defined future provision and that the hospitals would provide substantial cover.
Since the rationalisation programme introduced by the Minister was yesterday accepted by the board of management of the North Infirmary I should like to know if the Minister will now be making funds available to carry out the necessary work on the keystone of that programme as far as the North Infirmary is concerned, the modernisation of the casualty department?
Comment on this
I have just received the report and it is being considered. I gather it is being considered by the boards of management of the two hospitals. I will be seeking the views of the North Infirmary and the Mercy Hospital in regard to the proposals but I should like to assure the Deputy that any resources required in 1986 to complete the development of the hospital services in Cork city will be made available, particularly on the capital side. I have a substantial capital programme for 1986 and money will be made available unstintingly because this development is essential.
Comment on this
I should like an assurance from the Minister in regard to the accident and emergency services provided by the North Infirmary. Down the years they have proved vital. Will the Minister assure us that the accident and emergency activities will not be hampered in any way? Will the Minister make capital provision for the accident and emergency services without any more doubtful thinking by the Department? I want that important matter clarified by the Minister.
Comment on this
There is a great deal of difference in definition as to what is meant by accident and emergency services in a hospital. The North Infirmary provides a service in regard to casualties and accepts accidents and emergencies of a particular kind. The definition of future accident, emergency and casualty work is contained in the report. I do not propose to go into detail about that at this stage but I must say that the two hospitals will provide substantial cover. I have no doubt that the people of the area will be well served. Deputies will be aware that the Cork Regional Hospital provides the acute accident emergency services for the city as a whole.