Seanad debates
Tuesday, 13 May 2003
Health Service: Statements.
The Western Health Board had some good publicity at the end of 2002 when it was shown that there was a surplus of over €8 million and at yesterday's meeting there was reference to a €5 million surplus. I hope some of that funding can go to keeping beds open. In the area of disability, for which the Minister of State has responsibility, I hope we will also find funding to keep respite beds open, a matter I have raised with him privately and publicly. It is a shame to propose to reduce respite care even from five days to four days, as, for example, in St. Dympna's in Portumna. There are also proposals to reduce the number of staff at Ashtree House in Ballinasloe. Parents have really been very strong and called meetings to make the case that if there is extra funding, it should be spent on disability. I hope the Minister of State will be able to give us a positive response.
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