Arising out of the Minister's response in terms of gaps that existed before he came into office, will he accept that at this time there is not a single geriatric bed available in County Wexford since the closure of Browns-wood Hospital, Enniscorthy? This is a tremendous cause of concern for general practitioners who have no reference point now for elderly patients in rural isolated areas. What steps does he propose to take to fill that particular gap which has come into existence since he assumed office?

I do not accept that accommodation is not available for patients who need accommodation, or indeed for elderly patients who need accommodation.

Tell them where, Minister.

I accept there are waiting lists and that they are longer than we would like to see them. For that reason I am looking forward to what I hope will be a very comprehensive report on the care of the elderly in our society. I hope we will implement some of the recommendations in the report shortly after we receive it.

May I ask one very brief supplementary question? Is the Minister aware that the chief executive officer of the South Eastern Health Board has issued a directive to the only two available geriatric hospitals in County Wexford not to accept admissions from the general public until all patients from Brownswood have been accommodated?

I am not aware of any such directive. I am a little confused because Deputy Howlin a few minutes ago stated there were no facilities for the elderly.

Are there beds available for patients from the general public?