I propose to take Questions Nos. 234 and 235 together.
The development of modern healthcare infrastructure is a complex process. As the Deputy knows, technical and specialist knowledge and expertise and capacity is required at all stages of capital projects such as appraisal, planning, design, procurement, construction, equipping and commissioning, and is typically procured from outside specialist consultancy firms and contractors.
The expenditure to date (September 2019) on projects costing more than €100 million is as follows and includes costs relating to outside contractors and consultancy firms:
- New Children's Hospital: €385 million
- National Forensic Mental Health Service Hospital: €160 million
It is important to recognise that all capital development proposals must progress through a number of approval stages, in line with the Public Spending Code, including detailed appraisal, planning, design and procurement, before a firm timeline or funding requirement can be established.
The HSE procures construction works using the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform's Capital Works Management Framework.