Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for the update. While I appreciate that there is a long lead-in time for capital projects, Macroom Community Hospital has been identified as a need and planning permission was granted for the project almost ten years ago. How long is a long lead-in time for an extension to a hospital? Two and possibly three generations of people have moved through the hospital in that time. It is in the interests of the dignity and privacy of those who will next use the hospital that these essential works are carried out. I note the Minister of State visited the hospital and indicated that works would be carried out shortly. It was stated at that time that planning permission would be granted in October 2018. As such, there has been further slippage, even in the past year.

I note what the Minister of State said on funding. We understand that funding of some €5.8 million was allocated previously but staff and families are concerned that the demand for money for the national children's hospital will challenge that in some way. We need to address that issue as well. Those involved in Macroom Community Hospital do not feel the project is a priority. If it is a priority, however, the Minister of State should not be under pressure for funding. He should have first call on the money if it is a priority project.

In the interests of Macroom Community Hospital, we need the Minister of State to set out a roadmap for the project. What are the steps and timelines involved and when will it be delivered? We have heard many commitments and seen many slippages. We now need delivery.

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