In the current year the Government has invested almost €8.2 billion – £6.4 billion – in the health services, which represents an increase of 134% since 1997. As a percentage of gross national product, health revenue expenditure now stands at 7.8%. This is the highest it has been in almost 20 years. The establishment by Government of a national development plan is the most important event in the development of the health capital infrastructure. The level of funding in 2002 represents a 33% increase on the 2001 outturn. This funding will allow for the continued progression of major projects in the health sector, such as hospitals and community facilities. Every region in the country has had a major investment programme in its health facilities and equipment.