Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 27 April 2021

Select Committee on Health

Estimates for Public Services 2021
Vote 38 - Health (Revised)

Photo of Stephen DonnellyStephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chairman for his questions. As the committee will be aware, the capital budget for the children's hospital, including the three satellites, is €1.433 billion. There will be commissioning costs on top of that. However, that figure does not take into account the impact of Covid-19. It would not be appropriate for me to speculate at this time as to what that might cost, given that it will be the subject of ongoing negotiation between the board and the contractor.

I agree regarding long Covid. We need to get an important message out to people, particularly now as we see case numbers beginning to tip upwards again. Even though those who are younger are significantly less likely to fall seriously ill or die from Covid, there are emerging cases of long Covid among all age groups. It is concerning in some instances. The Chairman referenced several cases. I am aware of research into potential permanent neurological and heart muscle damage. Part of the message that we need to get out while we are still in the gap between the most vulnerable people being vaccinated and others getting vaccinated is that, even if people are in a relatively safe category in respect of fatalities, what the Chairman just referenced in terms of long Covid is very serious. People of all age groups are taking months and months to recover from Covid and are exhausted. This matter is being examined. Money has not been explicitly ring-fenced for it, but a substantial contingency fund relating to Covid is in place and can be tapped into. The Government will not be found wanting in the research, treatment and supports required.

Regarding mandatory hotel quarantine,-----

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