142 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of contract beds funded by the Eastern Regional Health Authority; the amount of money available for such funding; the amount of money spent on such beds to 31 March 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11017/01]

143 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people presently on the waiting list for contract beds in the Eastern Regional Health Authority; the length of time they have been waiting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11018/01]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 143 together.

The provision of health services in the Eastern Regional Health Authority area is a matter for the authority itself. I have asked the Regional Chief Executive of the authority to investigate this matter and respond directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.