Ms Kate Killeen White:

We do base our decisions on the expert opinions from our colleagues in estates. We also, however, base our decisions on many factors, including the Health Act regulations, say for better healthcare, fire precautions, etc. What is really important in this context as well is that in March 2020 the whole country, including south Tipperary, had to deal with Covid-19. Another determining factor in this instance, therefore, were the enhanced infection prevention and control guidelines, which we had to apply in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It is important to stress that in 2018 consideration had been given by hospital management, in conjunction with technical services, to adding an extension to St. Brigid's hospital with a view to addressing the environmental challenges. The building itself, however, and the surrounding grounds and parking areas did not allow for that to happen. Unfortunately, the physical adaptations and changes required to operate the service in line with the statutory and regulatory frameworks, coupled with the existing infrastructure, were not conducive with the level of works required.