Vol. 396 No. 5
16 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that the construction of the new Ardkeen Regional Hospital, Waterford will proceed on schedule, despite the financial difficulties of the contractor; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The main contractor on the Ardkeen Hospital project has recently gone into receivership and negotiations are currently being conducted with a view to ensuring that the contractual arrangements for the completion of the construction work are finalised as soon as possible. These negotiations are complex and involve several parties including the South Eastern Health Board, the receiver, the bondsman and others. Pending the outcome of the negotiations, I cannot say what the definitive arrangements will be for the continuation of the work but I am hopeful that the issue can be satisfactorily resolved with the minimum disruption of the original timetable and I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that any further comment by me would be premature at this stage.
I am aware that comment might not be helpful but will the Minister undertake to keep an eye on what is happening and ensure that his Department do everything possible to see that the work continues and that the hospital is finished on schedule?
Yes. I agree with what the Deputy has said. Certainly, we will be keeping in close contact with the Southern Health Board because we are anxious that the work be completed on schedule. I will keep in touch with the Deputy about the matter.
Especially, after the Minister's position papers with Deputy Fahey.
That is more of the false propaganda.
Ná bí ag cur isteach.
