66 Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn asked the Minister for Health when he received a proposal from the Western Health Board in relation to the establishment of a cardiac surgery unit at University College Hospital, Galway; when he will make a state-decision in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10486/97]

Limerick East): I am fully committed to the provision of additional capacity for cardiac surgery and an examination of the long-term requirements is under way. One of the matters to be considered, as part of this examination, is the location of additional capacity within the public hospital system.I have received tenders from four hospitals for this additional work, including one for University College Hospital, Galway, and these are currently being examined by a group specially convened to produce a report on how cardiac surgery for public patients could be expanded by 500 cases annually.