Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator and will convey his question to the Minister for Health. The important thing that is stated in black and white here is that Waterford city, as the Senator has correctly pointed out, has been identified based on priority. That is the first important component. The Minister for Health has outlined the reasons why the voted allocation of capital funding does not happen at this stage but must go through a process. No doubt the Senator's own role as an Opposition spokesman on this issue and as a Waterford Senator means he will be keeping this on the agenda. No doubt his good colleagues in the Government will be heard loud and clear as well. The fact is that it has been identified and prioritised. I will pass on the question regarding whether HIQA has a hierarchy of priority nationally or where it fits into HIQA's schedule to the Minister for Health and will ask him to contact the Senator directly.