Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for her comments. The structure proposed in respect of the new National Maternity Hospital is envisaged as standing apart from the current St. Vincent's Healthcare Group. It retains the mastership structure. We have had a lot of public discourse and debate about this.

Although I always like to be forthcoming with information, I must be conscious of what I say as we are in the middle of ongoing discussions and negotiations between my Department, the Chief State Solicitor's office and the St. Vincent's Healthcare Group. This is a potential investment of €300 million by the taxpayer. I am absolutely clear in my view that the issue of ownership is of paramount importance. Absolute protection for the State's investment can be achieved in a number of ways.

The Deputy may have articulated a number of ways in which this can happen. A number of ways are being explored and I expect to be able to revert to the matter very shortly when I hope to be able to announce significant progress in that regard.

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