Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 May 2024
14. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Health to provide an update on progress being made to deliver a primary care centre in Swords, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19788/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to thank the Deputy for allowing me to update the house on this matter.
The provision of a new Primary Care Centre in Swords is a priority for both this Government and the HSE. These centres play a vital role in delivering integrated care by enabling closer cooperation between health professionals from across different disciplines and sectors, while making services more accessible and supporting people to live more independently in the community.
The PCC in Swords is to be delivered via the Operational Lease Mechanism. Negotiations with the preferred provider had reached an advanced stage and planning has been granted for a site in the Airside region of Swords, north of the R125 road.
However, recently, the preferred provider for the new centre in Swords has indicated a potential issue regarding the economic viability of the project. Subsequently, engagement has taken place between the HSE and the developer, to understand the nature and extent of same. The HSE has in the last week written to the developer to seek a final view as to the viability and failing that the project will be imminently re-tendered.
Deputy, I recognise the frustration of people in the local area who have been awaiting the development of this new centre. However, should the preferred provider be unable to proceed, the HSE has reassured me that it will be exploring all options to deliver a new Primary Care Centre in the area.
I wish to assure you that both I, and officials in my Department, are actively engaging with the HSE in order to progress the further development of Primary Care Centres throughout the country including the new centre in Swords.
