Vol. 514 No. 3
240 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps, if any, he will take to rectify the situation preventing the Western Health Board from purchasing Portiuncula Hospital as a result of legal claims against medical staff there. [4412/00]
Discussions are ongoing between my Department, the Western Health Board and the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood, as owners of Portiuncula Hospital, in relation to finalising arrangements for a transfer of ownership of the hospital. I understand a good deal of progress has been made to date in successfully addressing the wide ranging issues involved, including those of a financial, human resource and legal nature. I understand any outstanding issues are being actively progressed with a view to achieving a smooth transfer of ownership and management at an early date.
