Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 January 2024
28. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Health for an update on progress on the new 42-bed medical block at Sligo University Hospital, which was due to start construction before the end of 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1599/24]
View answerI would like to thank Deputy Harkin for her question and allowing me the opportunity provide an update on the progress being made in Sligo University Hospital.
The delivery of health capital projects is a dynamic process, subject to the successful completion of the various project approval stages, for example in line with the newly published Infrastructure Guidelines and also market response noting recent and current labour market and wider macro economy dynamics.
The proposals for additional beds for Sligo University Hospital are noted against recent progress where 1,126 acute beds have been opened since 2020. This represents more acute hospital beds delivered than in any comparable period since the HSE was established.
A service need for additional bed capacity was identified in Sligo University Hospital and an additional 42 bed project is underway. The project will deliver 2 x 21 bed wards, single en-suite rooms with ancillary accommodation. Planning permission and fire certifications have been received for the project.
Essential enabling works to facilitate the provision of a new Ward Block including a car park are under construction and nearing completion.
The 42 bed project is out for tender. Tenders for the project are expected back by end Q1 2024.
A review of the tender options will take place following their submission, and the preferred tender offered the contract in line with established procedures.
Following awarding of the contract, it is anticipated construction will commence in Q3 2024 with an estimated construction timeline of 30 months.
