Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 November 2019
63. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Health the status of progress on a new endoscopy unit for Naas General Hospital; the next steps in the delivery of a new stand alone mental health unit to replace Lakeview on the site of the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48865/19]
View answerA new endoscopy unit for Naas General Hospital is included for progression in the 2019 Capital Plan. An extension to planning permission was sought and has been extended for a further 5 years to December 2024. It is proposed to tender the works in 2020, with construction to commence early 2021 and to complete in late 2022.
The original development proposal for a new standalone mental health unit to replace Lakeview on the site of Naas General Hospital comprised the provision of an 8-bed intensive care unit at the existing 30 bed Lakeview Mental Health unit on the grounds of Naas General Hospital.
Following a review of the proposal, a significant expansion of the project scope is now proposed, with an associated increase in project value. This has meant the original design team’s engagement had to be terminated and a new procurement process undertaken.
The HSE has now appointed a new design team for this much expanded project.
The revised proposal is expected to deliver 50 bed spaces including a 9 bed intensive care area and significantly upgraded infrastructure. The timeframe for the completion of the new Acute Mental Health Unit project will be informed by the work of the project team and this work will be undertaken in conjunction with Naas General Hospital and the HSE.
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 final decision to proceed with the construction of a project cannot be made until the tender process has been completed and the costings reviewed to ensure that the proposal delivers value for money and remains affordable, and that sufficient funding is available to fund the project to completion, including equipping and commissioning costs.
