Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Many negotiations have taken place to ensure that we can arrive at that point. The Minister is still considering some of the outstanding issues the Deputy has raised. Of course, public money will only be used to ensure a quality health care service. That is very clear from the arrangements that have been made for the transition. The transition is to a body that has a charitable status. That is the reality of the situation. It is St. Vincent's charitable status. It is not anything else. It is to ensure that health care is delivered to the public and that the highest standards are met for pregnant women and for women who need maternity and obstetric services. I believe it is important that we move ahead. I do acknowledge that the Deputy is making a broader point, but with regard to the particular circumstances, a huge amount of work has been done in order to allow this hospital to go ahead at this site now.

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