Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 213: To ask the Minister for Health if he will ensure the future of Valentia Community Hospital, County Kerry; if he will elaborate on the recent statement regarding potential for more community involvement in district hospitals, which may be a solution to the continuation of the vital nursing care provided at Valentia, as the community involvement structure is already there and can be enhanced. [4300/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Valentia Community Hospital provides long term and respite care to older people. It is run by a voluntary organisation, Valentia Community Health and Welfare Association Ltd, and has a service level agreement with the HSE under Section 39 of the Health Act 2004.

In addition to long term residential care, Valentia Hospital can continue to have separate agreements with the HSE for the provision of other services, e.g. day care, respite and convalescence. There have been ongoing discussions between the Board of Management of Valentia Community Health and Welfare Association Ltd. and the HSE in relation to future service provision. I understand that the HSE is continuing to engage with the Board of management regarding the future of the service.

In the context of the provision of public nursing homes, my colleague Minister Reilly has indicated a willingness to consider all reasonable proposals which seek to protect the viability of as many as possible. This would include consideration of the wider needs of the local community and the alternative options for providing a viable service including a possible role for local communities or other voluntary providers.