Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 December 2012
195. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which the relevant authorities within his Department or within the Health Service Executive have examined the need for the upgrading of health centres throughout the country in the coming year in keeping with population demands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57325/12]
View answer197. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the need to upgrade the health centres in north west Kildare with particular reference to the growing centres of population; the extent to which the current health centres require upgrading in line with demographic trends; his plans to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57327/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 195 and 197 together.
The upgrade and refurbishment of health centres including those located in north west Kildare are considered by the Health Service Executive in the context of its roll-out of primary care infrastructure. There are always more construction projects than can be funded from the Exchequer's capital health care allocation. The Executive is required to prioritise infrastructure projects within its overall capital envelope taking into account the existing capital commitments and costs of completion over the period. The method and timescale for the delivery of primary care infrastructure is dependent on a number of factors; it is a dynamic process constantly evolving to take account of changing circumstances, including the feasibility of implementation. Work is underway on the Executive's multi-annual Capital Plan 2013-2017 and consideration of projects for inclusion in this Plan is an evolving process. The draft Plan will be submitted to my Department in due course. My Department will then review the proposals and follow up with the HSE where further details may be required. The draft Capital Plan 2013-2017 will require my approval with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
