Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 May 2011
571 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children when the review of the decision to build the National Paediatric Hospital will start; the terms of reference for same; when it is expected to conclude; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9169/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has committed, under the Programme for Government, to the construction of the New Children's Hospital. Since my appointment as Minister, I have been engaged in discussions with my officials and with the National Paediatric Hospital Board in order to brief myself on the work done on this project to date. I want to be clear about how we can best provide the hospital in the most cost effective manner while ensuring a high quality service for our children and young people.
I intend to carry out a review of the National Children's Hospital project and will announce the details shortly. I am in the process of finalising issues around the scope of the Review. When this is complete I will decide on the appropriate approach to the carrying out of this Review. I anticipate that the review, once commenced, should take approximately four weeks to complete.
It is essential that all the facts are carefully considered before a final decision is taken on the best approach. In particular I wish to be satisfied that the hospital will provide the best possible clinical outcomes for children and young people. You may rest assured that I wish to avoid any unnecessary delay to the development of this very important project.
