Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Question 901: To ask the Minister for Health when the consultation process will commence in relation to examining the future of a hospital (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26698/12]

Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Question 902: To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding a hospital (details supplied) in County Laois; if there is a consultation process underway in relation to the earlier announcement to close this hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26701/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 901 and 902 together.

On 24 May the Health Service Executive launched a public consultation process on the planning and provision of services for older people in the Midland counties of Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath with a view to ensuring the most efficient and effective delivery of its services within available resources. Part of this process includes a review of the 9 public long stay residential units in the Midlands in order to consolidate services. This will involve engaging with residents, relatives, staff, public representatives and other stakeholders. The process will be completed within a period of three months from commencement. Should the HSE conclude that full closure of any unit is necessary, a recommendation to this effect will be made.