I must point out to the Deputy at the outset that I have no statutory role in relation to the private hospital system. The level of provision of health services at private hospitals is determined by private health care providers in association with the health insurance industry.
On 30 March, my Department was informed by the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy, who are the owners of St. Michael's Private Hospital, Dún Laoghaire, that the hospital is to close in the coming months. The Order indicated that the decision was taken after a lengthy assessment. In particular they referred to the unsustainable financial position of the hospital which has apparently put it at a competitive disadvantage in relation to other similar facilities.