Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

On the Waterford cath lab, which is critically important for the region, it was unfortunate that there were delays due to Covid-19 but it is intended that the project will now go to tender. The HSE advises that funding was allocated in the 2019 capital plan, as the Deputy said. The fire certificate was granted in June of this year. The disability access certificate was granted in April of this year. Preparation of contract documentation has commenced and the contract selection is complete subject to a cooling off period. As to why there is that four-month period, it is deeply frustrating in our State and, unfortunately, I have seen it in so many different areas. I suppose the only, best and honest answer is we conduct procurement to the dotting of "i"s and crossing of "t"s properly so that there is never any question and that it is safe from any legal challenge.

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