I propose to take Questions Nos. 3034 to 3037, inclusive, together.
The Orthopaedic theatres currently under construction at Merlin Park University Hospital are replacing the two existing theatres and are due for completion by year end 2021 and are expected to be equipped and be operational by January 2022.
The two theatres are staffed for 16 sessions which will increase to 20 sessions when the new theatres open, and Galway University Hospital has applied for additional staff. These are replacement theatres, and the existing diagnostic supports already in place at Merlin Park University Hospital will be utilised.
The new Orthopaedic theatres are purpose-built and are not an inpatient/elective/day unit. These theatres will be fully operational when they open and will allow Galway University Hospital to restore elective orthopaedic surgery at Merlin Park University Hospital.