Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)

I will address the delay, such as it is. We want to anticipate the workforce planning is there to ensure it is operational. The delay is one that is essential for HIQA.

On the Deputy's question about the plan, when a HSE-owned property has been vacated by a health service, we have to determine whether it is surplus to health requirements in the area. That involves HSE engagement with other HSE services to establish whether they have a need for the property. I would be very interested in the Deputy's perspective, representing the area as he does. There is a programme of sale of buildings by HSE Estates, which I have been partially updated on. There is also a programme to offer them to the Land Development Agency for housing, if that is suitable, or to other State entities. I would be interested in the Deputy's perspective on the best use of the facility. It is important to hear from public representatives as well as every other stakeholder.

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