Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 43: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the capital health projects that will be progressed in 2011; the funding that has been set aside for this purpose; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1559/11]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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In 2011, the Health Sector will benefit from a total capital investment of €399m which will allow for the progression of a wide range of health infrastructure developments.

The capital allocation for the Health Service Executive in 2011 is €372.75m of which €40m is to support its ICT infrastructure. A further allocation of €15m over and above this provision is expected to be available based upon the proceeds of disposals of sales of surplus assets. In drawing up its capital programme the Executive is required to prioritise the capital infrastructure projects within its overall capital funding allocation taking into account the programme's capital commitments and costs to completion over the multi-annual period 2011 - 2015. Given the level of commitments and the completion costs there is limited funding available for new projects in 2011. Details of the capital infrastructure projects already in progress are set out in the HSE's Capital Plan 2010 - 2014 which is available on its website.

The Health Service Executive submitted its draft capital plan for the five year period 2011-2015 to my Department in December 2010. My Department is reviewing the plan and will follow up with the Executive where further details may be required. The proposed plan requires my approval with the consent of the Minister of Finance. Following its approval, details of the plan will be published by the HSE.

Of the €15.45m allocated to my Department, €0.45m will support its internal ICT and €15m is allocated in respect of capital grants to directly funded agencies.

Of the €10.8m allocated to the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, €10m is allocated for the National Childcare Investment Programme and the balance of €0.8m is allocated to the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund.