The HSE is to review the occupancy of the palliative care bed at St Joseph's care centre in Longford before making any decision on providing an additional local bed.
Minister Mary Butler has confirmed to Longford Senator Michael Carrigy that the current bed is included in the plans for the new unit at the centre.
Former Health Minister Simon Harris had indicated his support for increasing the capacity for a hospice bed at St Joseph's.
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However, Minister Butler now says that providing a second bed will be based on a review of current levels of need.
Senator Carrigy says there is a discrepancy in the figures the HSE is providing and research he has carried out:
