Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2003

Vol. 571 No. 1

Written Answers. - Hospital Accommodation.

John Cregan

Ceist:

966 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will report on the development of James Connolly Memorial Hospital, Blanchardstown; if all newly constructed units are fully open; if not, the position relating thereto; when problems will be solved; the reasons for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20640/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

As the Deputy is aware, the Eastern Regional Health Authority is charged with responsibility for commissioning health and personal social services on behalf of the population of the region, and also on behalf of those outside the region who are referred for specialist treatment.

Construction of phase 1 of the new hospital development at James Connolly Memorial Hospital is now complete with the exception of some snagging work, which is being carried out in a planned programme by the contractors. This major development is being funded jointly by the Northern Area Health Board – through the sale of surplus lands – and my Department. The projected full project cost is €101.4 million. This includes an amount of €5 million approved earlier this year to facilitate refurbishment works at the hospital which are necessary as part of the transition process to the new hospital and to facilitate a land transfer in line with the project development arrangements.

The development includes a number of facilities which have already been completed. My Department is advised that the coronary care and cardiac unit and the rehabilitation day hospital transferred to the new hospital in recent weeks. Other facilities already completed include an operating department and a surgical day unit as well as in-patient and associated accommodation and medical support services. The new hospital will provide 12 new five-day beds and 34 additional acute psychiatric beds. Discussions are ongoing between the authority, the Northern Area Health Board and the hospital about facilitating the transfer of existing services to the new accident and emergency department, which is due to open in November 2003. Consultations between my Department and the authority are ongoing in relation to the further additional revenue funding required to continue the phased transfer to the new hospital.