Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I, too, commend the staff of Beaumont on their work. It is an impressive hospital with an impressive team. In spite of the challenges of Covid, respiratory syncytial virus , winter and the flu, the team is doing fantastic work. I fully acknowledge that the new emergency department is important. The proposal includes a reconfiguration of the existing emergency department. Associated works, including road realignment, will also be necessary.

The HSE has appointed a design team. While it is in the early stages of development, I am happy that the design report has been completed. It is only one step but an important one. The design team will continue through this design process, including planning. In parallel, rather than sequentially, we are trying to get these things moving quicker. The HSE is drafting the strategic assessment report that is required. I expect this to be submitted early next year to my Department. If it satisfies the requirements of the public spending code, a preliminary business case can be developed.

Given the impact of construction inflation, supply chain issues and the war in Ukraine, the capital bill for the project could be in excess of €100 million. It is a substantial build. If the requirements are satisfied, it will be a question of the public spending code and a matter for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. When we have the strategic assessment review, we will be able to give a more detailed timeline as to when the new facilities will ultimately be in place for patients.

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