Ceist:
672 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children if plans exist to extend the existing children's hospital, in Crumlin Dublin 12; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1869/01]
Written Answers. - Hospitals Building Programme.
Responsibility for the provision of paediatric health services in the eastern region rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. I am aware that the Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children has submitted a proposal for development to the authority and that this is being examined by the authority in the context of the overall national development plan and the delivery of paediatric services in the eastern region as a whole. The authority will arrive at a decision in relation to the development proposal in discussion with the hospital, based on priority of need and in the context of competing demands on the authority for funding for new developments.
The Deputy may be aware that my Department has already sanctioned a major theatre development at the hospital. This theatre development, when completed, will provide five new operating theatres complete with ancillary accommodation, a day surgery area and a central sterile supplies department. The existing theatre facilities will also be upgraded to provide a further two theatre suites. When these theatres are fully commissioned it is expected that the hospital will be in a position to perform an additional 100 paediatric cardiac procedures per annum, which is an increase of 40% on its existing capacity. The necessary planning for this work is at an advanced stage and it is anticipated that tenders for the work will issue in March 2001 with commencement of work shortly thereafter. This development is expected to cost in the region of £20 million.
Question No. 673 answered with Question No. 653.