Vol. 555 No. 3
213 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children if the construction of a new maternity unit at Cork University Hospital is under way; when this unit is to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18564/02]
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that I have given approval to the Southern Health Board to proceed with the construction of the new amalgamated maternity department at Cork University Hospital. This new department, which will replace the existing facilities at St. Finbarr's Hospital and Erinville Hospital, will have 150 beds for obstetrics and pregnancy related gynaecology and 50 cots for neonatal services. This development represents an investment of €75 million in the hospital.
The Southern Health Board established a project team to plan and oversee this development. I understand that work has commenced on site and that the timescale for completion of the building is approximately three years.
