Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Cullinane for raising this issue and enabling me to give the House a clear update on the current position. The Government has a policy of supporting older people to live with dignity and independence in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. Where this is not feasible, the health service supports access to quality long-term residential care where appropriate. The health service is continuing to develop and improve health services in all regions of the country to ensure quality and patient safety. Before 2009, the provision of a community residential care facility at St. Patrick's Hospital was included in the list of capital construction projects. As a consequence of the economic downturn and the resulting substantial reduction in the capital funding available for the HSE construction programme, however, it was not possible to deliver this or other projects. In 2012, the HSE reviewed its long-stay bed complement and developed viability plans. Priority locations for funding were identified in 2013.

In the case of the project referred to by the Senator, the health service has undertaken a historic building assessment report and completed a development control plan. The project that is now proposed involves the construction of a 100-bed community nursing unit on the St. Patrick's campus, to replace the existing accommodation at St. Patrick's Hospital and St. Otteran's Hospital. The health service is in the process of appointing a number of design teams for a variety of projects, including this community nursing unit, which will enable building design, statutory approvals and tender documents be completed. As with all capital projects, this project must be considered within the overall capital envelope available to the health service. There will always be more construction projects than can be funded by the Exchequer.

The method and timescale for the delivery of health care infrastructure is a dynamic process which is constantly evolving to take account of changing circumstances, including the feasibility of implementation. There is limited funding available for new projects over the period 2014-18 given the level of commitments and the costs to completion already in place. The HSE has submitted to my Department its draft capital plan for the multi-annual five year period 2014-18. My Department is reviewing the proposals and following up with the health service where further details may be required. The proposed plan requires my approval with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.