Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 November 2023
63. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that an organisation (details supplied) recently stated that the Budget 2024 capital allocation for Health will not result in the opening of the 1,500 additional rapid build hospital beds, six surgical hubs and four elective hospitals promised by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49023/23]
View answerThe Budget 2024 capital allocation for Health is based off the NDP ceilings. A 5-year allocation to 2025 of €5.657bn has been allocated to the Department of Health as part of the review of the National Development Plan (NDP). An 11% increase in funding year on year to 2025 this will support the strategic direction of health capital investment in the period.
The number of projects competing for inclusion in the Capital plan each year invariably exceeds available funding. This is the case in 2024 and a balanced approach to progressing the pipeline of projects across the sector must be applied.
The 1,500 acute bed rapid-build programme, surgical hubs and elective hospitals will be progressed under Capital Plan 2024.
My Department is working in conjunction with the HSE to develop the Capital Plan 2024. Once finalised it will be submitted to me for approval in my capacity as Minister for Health, prior to publication in line with established procedures.
There is a strong track record of delivery of infrastructure in the health sector. Every allocated euro in the current NDP provision is invested to ensure we deliver on our core goal of universal healthcare and this is underpinned by a strong pipeline of capital projects being progressed by the HSE and Department of Health.
