Richard Bruton
Question:103 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress todate on the opening of the new Ballymun health centre; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26203/04]
View answerThursday, 28 October 2004
Questions (106)
Written answers
The former Eastern Health Board and its successors the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the Northern Area Health Board, in conjunction with Ballymun Regeneration Limited — a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dublin City Council — proceeded with the development of Ballymun primary care centre in the absence of my Department's involvement or approval; consequently, my Department must conduct an evaluation of this project. The Deputy will appreciate that a detailed examination of this development is a fundamental requirement for those who are accountable for approving it.
My Department commenced an evaluation of this project when the ERHA and the NAHB sought funding last year for the provision and fit-out of these facilities — as construction work approached completion on site. This evaluation is ongoing and to date, it has concentrated on confirming all necessary compliance with relevant obligations in respect of public procurement. The evaluation must also address the normal criteria applicable to health capital developments, including the scope, the functional content and the overall funding requirements of the project, particularly the recurrent non-capital element involved in this case.
On satisfactory completion of this evaluation my Department will be in a position to make a recommendation in respect of the provision of funding for this project. My Department is making every effort to bring this matter to a conclusion and is continuing to work closely with the ERHA to resolve the outstanding issues as quickly as possible.