Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

The Mater site is 20,000 sq. ft. Before the decision on the location, every paediatrician in Dublin, including Dr. Doherty, with whom I had many discussions, said that it was fantastic. I remember him telling me that co-location with an adult hospital would be fantastic; there is no doubt about it.

Issues have arisen regarding parking and access. One must remember that the hospital is for the entire country, since 48% of the children will come from outside the Dublin area. It was generally thought that a city-centre site, with many children arriving by public transport, would be best. The metro station will be adjacent to the site. Their parents may have to stay for a long period, with other relatives visiting. It was thought that it would be more accessible than picking a site on either side of the city. Experts were involved regarding traffic and choice of site.

I accept that when one does not choose the preferred site of certain individuals, people may oppose it. However, it reassures me greatly that parents of sick children in Crumlin have said it is great and that I should implement the plan without delay. That is the greatest reassurance of all, and those are the words that I like to hear.

Urgent care centres have not been compromised. Of the 25,500 child visits to Tallaght Hospital last year, for example, 19,500 were dealt with the same day, with no overnight stay. Thankfully, the vast bulk of sick children who require to attend a hospital are treated as day cases and do not require hospitalisation.

The new hospital will cater for very ill children with rare cancers and serious illnesses, many of whom will be in hospital for a considerable time. In the past, many such children would not have survived for more than a few days after their birth. That has changed, which is why co-location with maternity facilities, where high-risk pregnancies will be dealt with, was an important feature of the decision.

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