Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I am not aware that legislation would be required for such a proposal were one to emerge. These are issues which are considered by the NRA when evaluating factors such as proper traffic management, road investment needs to support economic competitiveness, safety issues and implementation of Government policy in areas such as smarter travel. In any event, such issues or initiatives when they arise are considered by the Minister for Transport in due course.

In answer to the Deputy's first question, it is expected to have the four-year budgetary framework prepared by mid-November. The date for the budget is 7 December. We have indicated this as a result of the decision taken last week. We expect mid-November to be the time when we can do that. The pre-budget outlook can also be provided at that time.

On the second question I do not know if specific legislation is involved, but I accept it is inappropriate to admit young people to units providing care and treatment to adults. However, recognising the absence of an alternative, such admissions are sometimes necessary for the safety and treatment of a child. In arriving at a decision to admit a young person to an adult unit, due consideration is given to the risks of not admitting him or her and the potential adverse effects of such an admission. During 2009 the bed capacity for children and adolescents almost doubled, bringing the total number of inpatient beds to 30. That capacity will be further increased to 52 following the commissioning of two new units in Cork and Galway later this year. The opening of a new 20-bed purpose-built unit at Bessborough in Cork later this year will provide for the inpatient needs of the Waterford area in the future.

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