Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Four years ago, the Rural Independent Group tabled a motion to stop the madness of the black hole that is the national children's hospital. The motion gave the Dáil an opportunity to vote against what was going on. The confidence and supply arrangement was in place at the time and the Taoiseach's party supported and voted with the Government to continue the madness of a project that was meant to cost €400 million but which is now reaching €2 billion or more in a location with no access for a helipad, no parking spaces and no proper road access due to congestion. His party is continuing to support the project. The equipment in the hospital will be obsolete by the time it is finished. We are now being told it will be ready in 2024. I know Mr. Fred Barry has left the outfit. Will the Taoiseach please facilitate a meaningful debate in the House on what is going on, the scandalous overrun in terms of money and the scandalous neglect and delay to services for the sickest of children?

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