Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 July 2016
118. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Health if he has met with Saolta and-or the management of Galway University Hospital on health issues (details supplied) and the planning for a new hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20604/16]
View answerThere are no plans for a new hospital to be built in Co. Galway.
University Hospitals Galway comprises Galway University Hospital and Merlin Park University Hospital, which are located in the city of Galway. The close proximity of these Hospitals and the joint organisational structure enable cross-development of GUH and Merlin Park to ensure the best use of both hospital sites.
There has been, and continues to be, significant development of the GUH site. Developments completed include the Clinical Research Facility, the upgrade to the Maternity Unit and the CF Out-Patient Department. In early 2016, 30 additional beds opened at the Hospital as part of the Winter Additional Capacity Initiative.
Also, construction work is ongoing on the new 75 bed ward block which will provide single room in-patient accommodation. A new acute mental health department is under way and is expected to be completed early in 2017. Following the transfer of mental health services to the new acute department, work will begin on the construction of the National Plan for Radiation Oncology project for which the HSE has already obtained planning permission.
Furthermore, the Programme for a Partnership Government has committed to providing a new ED for GUH. Given the ongoing investment that has been, made at the GUH site, it would not represent value for money to develop a new hospital in the region. I am due to meet with the Chair and CEO of the Saolta University Healthcare Group on 14 July, 2016, as part of a process of engagement with the Chairs and CEOs of all Hospital Groups.
