Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Jun 2003

Vol. 569 No. 3

Written Answers. - Hospitals Building Programme.

Joan Burton

Question:

139 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the new five storey facility at James Connolly Memorial Hospital, Blanchardstown, which cost more than ?96 million to construct and equip, has still not been brought into service; the steps being taken to ensure that the facility is commissioned without further delay, especially in view of the severe pressure on hospitals in the greater Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17542/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

As the Deputy is aware, the Eastern Regional Health Authority is charged with responsibility for commissioning health and personal social services on behalf of the population of the region and also on behalf of those outside the region who are referred for specialist treatment.

Construction of the new hospital building at James Connolly Memorial Hospital is nearing completion. This major development is being funded jointly by the Northern Area Health Board, through the sale of surplus lands at the hospital site, and the Department. The Department has met its funding commitment to the project through the provision of approximately €46 million to date. In addition, the Department approved an additional €5 million capital funding to facilitate refurbishment works at JCMH which are necessary as part of the transition process to the new hospital and to facilitate a land transfer in line with the project development arrangements.

Phase 1A of the development, which has been completed, includes an accident and emergency department, an operating department and a surgical day unit as well as in-patient and associated accommodation and medical support services. The new hospital will provide a 56 bed unit comprising 44 acute psychiatric beds, six high observation beds and six psychiatry of later life beds. The existing acute psychiatric unit has 22 beds. Patients from a 22-bed unit at St. Brendan's Hospital will also be moving to the new unit. The new hospital will also provide 12 new day beds and additional capacity in the intensive care and coronary care units. The refurbishment of the existing surgical block is being progressed at present. The next stage of the project will involve commissioning and equipping the new building. Discussions involving the ERHA, the NAHB and my Department regarding the capital and revenue requirements for this process are currently in train. Discussions are also continuing with staff in respect of the transfer to the new hospital.

Question No. 140 answered with Question No. 87.