Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 January 2019
144. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health if the professional indemnity insurance providers of the quantity surveyors and design engineers associated with the national children’s hospital will be contributing toward recouping some of the escalating costs of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3582/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am already on record as stating that the increased cost is a matter of great concern and I have made it clear that Phase B of the construction project must be delivered within budget and timescale. The National Paediatric Hospital Development Board will be required to provide on-going assurance to the HSE, Department of Health and Government that Phase B of the project is being delivered within budget and timescale.
An independent review of the escalation in cost in determining the adjusted contract sum, the contributory factors and associated responsibilities so that any potential weaknesses are identified and comprehensively and speedily resolved in the interests of the successful completion of the project and the effective management of public funds commenced this week. The review is expected to take place over an 8-week period with the report to be completed in March. The Department, the HSE and the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board are fully committed to collaborating with these reviews and to implementing any recommendations arising.
