130. Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that buses which have been specifically obtained to ferry patients from St. Luke's Hospital to Beaumont Hospital are not in service; the reason for that; and when a service will be provided. [43131/15]

St Luke’s Hospital has for ten years operated a minibus to transport patients to and from treatment. This minibus was supplied by the Friends of St Luke’s, though the staffing and running costs are provided by St Luke’s Hospital. The minibus remains in use, and has been continually in use other than in cases of servicing or breakdowns.

Recently the Friends of St Luke’s agreed to fund the purchase of two minibuses. The replacement minibus is due for delivery by the end of the year and the second is expected in the new year, after which both will operate to provide an improved service.