My Department approved the establishment of MRI facilities at Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin in July 2002. This approval was based on a detailed service assessment carried out by the Eastern Regional Health Authority, which found that the volume, nature and complexity of paediatric conditions dealt with at Our Lady's Hospital required the provision of on-site MRI facilities. It has been accepted by the hospital, the ERHA and my Department that the proposed development is a priority in order to develop and enhance the existing level of diagnostic services for children. A project team was established to advance the planning of these facilities. The project team recently completed the design brief for the development, the overall capital cost of which is estimated as being of the order of €5 million. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that sanction has been given to appoint a design team to progress the next stage of this important development.
Question No. 103 answered with Question No. 101.