§ Mr. Martinasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when patients at Woodilee hospital were transferred to temporary accommodation as a result of structural defects; where they are currently being cared for; what plans he has for the construction of suitable short-term temporary accommodation; when he expects the existing buildings at Woodilee to be fit for re-occupation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayFollowing the recommendation of a consultant structural engineer on Friday 13 March that the safety of the patients accommodated in the main block of Woodilee hospital was at risk, all the patients in that block were transferred over the following two days to alternative temporary accommodation at Woodilee hospital itself and at Stoneyetts, Gartloch, Stobhill, Leverndale, Ruchill and Mearnskirk hospitals. Since then, some of the patients at Mearnskirk have been transferred to the David Elder infirmary; further transfers may be made if other more suitable accommodation can be brought into use.
The consultant engineer is currently engaged on a further more detailed survey of the main block at Woodilee. Once his full report and supplementary building advice is available the greater Glasgow health board will be considering, in consultation with the Scottish Home and Health Department, whether the main block can and should be brought back into use and alternative options.
My right hon. and learned Friend is concerned that this situation has arisen but commends the speed with which the health board acted in response to the structural engineer's advice.