Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

That was explored last summer and the hospital's very strong preference, because of space issues, was to do it all together. We committed to doing this, which is why we reorganised within the hospital. Certainly, all options will be explored. As the Deputy may be aware, the care of the elderly facility at St. Vincent's leaves much to be desired. The facilities there for very old stroke victim patients are not what people are entitled to expect. If we can provide the 120-bedded facility in an innovative way with the hospital's support, and this is a voluntary hospital which is not owned by the State, then we should be prepared to do so. I am exploring this in the context of next Tuesday's budget.

See this speech in context