Blood Transfusion Service

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 July 2014

Tuesday, 1 July 2014

Ceisteanna (447)

Billy Kelleher

Ceist:

447. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the reason there has been no progress on the development of a new blood transfusion centre in Cork, despite the fact that the then Government made an allocation of €17 million in December 2008; to date the money earmarked has remained unused and endless discussions between the parties concerned appear inconclusive; the reason delivery on this project has not occurred; the reason for the delay; if he will provide a current status report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27826/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service are finalising their plans for a new centre in Cork in the light of current needs. This includes discussions with the South/South West Hospital Group (the centre is likely to be located at Cork University Hospital) and with University College Cork on some aspects of the proposals. It is expected that the details of the development, which will include a donor clinic for whole blood, apheresis platelets and haemochromatosis, will be finalised in the coming months.