Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

A proposal for the redevelopment of the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire was included in the National Development Plan 2007-2013. This was confirmed by the Department of Health and Children on 23 January 2007. No objections were lodged to the application and planning permission for the redevelopment was granted by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council on 4 September 2008.

The project, which will cost €200 million, provides for a new facility that will be funded by the Health Service Executive. The redevelopment will allow for an almost doubling of capacity to 235 beds. This arises in response to the increased demand for rehabilitative treatments and will constitute a centre of excellence in the field of medical rehabilitation. It is an important project, both for the area and nationally. In view of the precarious state of the public finances and notwithstanding the granting of planning permission, I am anxious to hear that this vital project will continue to be funded by the Government in the context of the national development plan. A clarification from the Minister of State, Deputy Mansergh, in this regard would be most welcome to all concerned.