Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

I recognise that the Minister of State is representing the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children here tonight and that, to some extent, it is difficult to provide information because it is coming from the Health Service Executive. However, I am very disappointed that this answer was the best he could provide. Much of the information in his answer is already in the public domain. Only the last few lines deal with the situation and at best, the Health Service Executive can tell the Minister of State that the design team is currently preparing detailed drawings. The reality is that the team is not preparing these drawings. It is not in a position to do so because it has not received the signature from the Health Service Executive's hospital section to allow it to produce the detailed drawings. It is awaiting this signature.

It is a very difficult situation. We are trying to move ahead with this project and, unfortunately, somebody somewhere in the bowels of the Health Service Executive is not proceeding with or delivering on this project in line with best practice. Such a state of affairs is unacceptable. I am aware of the Minister of State's commitment to the project and to the care of elderly people in particular, the way in which he has managed to deal with these situations in County Clare and the significant amount of money he has provided to the elderly care section. However, in respect of the acute hospital section, which is outside the Minister of State's control and remit, it is disgraceful that this situation can be allowed to continue. Incorrect information is provided to the Minister of State and does not allow for the completion of this project in a timely manner. I thank the Minister of State for his delivery.