Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 88: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on whether it is necessary to carry out another review of hospital beds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15525/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Following discussions between the Health Services Executive, HSE, and my Department, it has been decided to carry out a review of our acute hospital bed requirements up to the year 2020.

A steering group has been established under the chairmanship of Mr. John O'Brien, temporary national director of the National Hospitals Office. The group includes representatives of the HSE, my Department, the Department of Finance and the Economic and Social Research Institute. Dr. Mary Codd, clinical epidemiologist, who acted as a consultant to my Department for a similar exercise some years ago, is also a member of the group. It is envisaged that the group will engage in consultation with key service providers and stakeholders within the Irish health care system in the course of its work.