237 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the construction of a new community hospital in Dingle, County Kerry; if a site has been a acquired for this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6583/02]

My Department has overall responsibility for health services under the National Development Plan 2001 to 2006. Indicative funding has been notified to the Southern Health Board for each year of the plan. It is a matter for the board to prioritise its projects under this plan.

The board has advised that the development of a community hospital in Dingle is one of its priority projects. The board has further advised that agreement has been reached for the purchase of the site and the legal agreement for the transfer of the site will be effected on receipt of planning permission. The project is now proceeding and it is expected that an application for planning permission will shortly be made by the board.

238 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the extension to Kenmare District Hospital, Kenmare, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6584/02]

My Department has overall responsibility for health services under the National Development Plan 2001 to 2006. Indicative funding has been notified to the Southern Health Board for each year of the plan. It is a matter for the board to prioritise its projects under this plan.