Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 February 2024
33. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of a recent ESRI report that found there is an immediate 1,000 bed deficit across public hospitals and an additional 330 beds are required each year for the foreseeable future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9503/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis Government is committed to strengthening the capacity and resilience of our health system through delivery of key infrastructural investments.
Since 2020, 1,150 acute beds have been opened across the country, which is more acute hospital beds delivered than in any comparable period since the HSE was established.
I, and my officials, have worked closely with the HSE to develop a capital programme for the coming years with significant ambitions in terms of health infrastructural investment and adding capacity.
Infrastructure & Construction priorities for 2024 include:
• Constructing the National Children’s Hospital
• Advancing the National Maternity Hospital
• Progressing the Surgical Hubs
• Progressing Elective Hospitals
• Progressing acute capacity projects including both Limerick Ward Blocks, Beaumont, Sligo, and completion of construction of acute beds throughout the country in 2024
• Continued investment in primary and community care, with 413 community beds due to complete construction throughout the country in 2024
• Continued investment in Mental Health infrastructure in community and acute settings.
• Continued investment in infrastructural risk, ambulance bases, equipment and ambulance replacement programmes
• Investment in Climate Action programme
I am currently reviewing the HSE Capital Plan 2024. Once approved, the Capital Plan 2024 will be published in line with established procedures.
I and my officials are engaging with Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform in relation to funding support for additional acute bed capacity. This engagement is in the context of the updating of NDP ceilings that are under review.
