Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy. While we have already invested in the University Hospital Galway campuses, there are significant proposals, as the Deputy is aware, for further investments there. The integrated development control plan, DCP, has been informed by population health needs and clinical demand. That has been developed and now provides a clear masterplan for the sequencing and delivery of new facilities. My Department has received a copy of the DCP and a programme strategic assessment report, SAR, which are currently being reviewed against infrastructure guideline requirements. In parallel, the preliminary business case for the first phase of works is under development. The SAR feedback will be returned to the HSE in the coming weeks for inclusion within it.

A considerable amount of enabling works will be required to deliver the masterplan. The phased transfer of outpatient services from UHG to Merlin Park continues, with phase 1 of the outpatient department block now operational and phase 2 at design stage, which will unlock a portion of the campus. The initial scoping and site investigative works at UHG for various enabling works was recently completed. Site clearance works have already been undertaken to begin to clear the site for the first of the new 150-bed ward block. These include the removal of all above-ground prefab and solid structures on the footprint of the proposed development site and the diversion of a number of underground services. The old neurology building was recently demolished following the relocation of this service to Merlin Park.

Further enabling works are currently at detailed design stage and will proceed to construction in early 2026. Beyond those, there is another tender to appoint an integrated design team for further works, which will conclude by the end of 2025, with further design work starting in early 2026.

A tender is under way for construction of a new electrical energy centre to enhance campus resilience and support future developments there.

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