Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 74: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether an increased bed capacity is urgently required in Mayo General Hospital in view of the increasing numbers on trolleys in the accident and emergency department; her further views on whether the hospital has the capability to provide these essential additional beds and that her Department needs to sanction long-term financial investment to provide the necessary beds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41440/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Health Service Executive has informed me that a ward at Mayo General Hospital which was being used for cardiac investigations is in the process of being refurbished as an admission lounge. This facility will provide 15 beds which will allow patients to be admitted to the Hospital from the A & E department in a timely manner, and be managed under the care of the appropriate consultant in an environment which preserves their dignity and privacy pending transfer to the relevant ward. This project is due to be completed shortly. I understand that the Hospital is in discussions with the HSE regarding the staffing and revenue resources required to commission the facility.