Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the attention that the Deputy is bringing to this. He has eloquently outlined the importance of this project to the future of not just Cork but to the entire Munster area. I assure the Deputy that I and many other Deputies in the Cork area are very anxious to see this progress, in line with a number of other capital projects that are committed to for healthcare in County Cork, both at a community and an acute level, for a different range of necessary services. We are all watching the capital plan as it progresses. The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot give any further commitment other than what I already have given. Detailed design and planning for 2019 are funded. We have to let the HSE work with the Department to finalise a capital plan for 2019. I cannot go outside that and confirm individual projects until it is complete. I assure the Deputy that I appreciate the chance that he has given to air the necessity and importance of this project. I will support him wholeheartedly to ensure that we have delivery for the people of Munster in the years ahead.

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