Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I seek an update from the Minister of State on the planned new 50-bed unit for Portiuncula University Hospital in Ballinasloe. I have been raising this issue for some time. I first met the then Minister for Health and now Taoiseach, Deputy Varadkar, in 2015. It is important this project is funded under the 2019 capital investment plan. These are much-needed facilities for the hospital to replace wards which are unfit for a modern healthcare setting. Much of the nurses' strike is about working conditions in our hospitals. This project is key to improving conditions for patients, nurses and other staff within the hospital.

As the Minister of State is aware, this is a shovel-ready project and it is important we get shovels in the ground on this project. I have been in touch with hospital management recently and it continues to confirm the urgency for this project to be delivered.

I want to make the strongest possible case for this project this morning. I understand the capital investment plan is currently being finalised. It is important this project is included in it for 2019. As an occupational therapist, I am very aware of the need for modern health infrastructure. We know that in terms of standards a number of the wards at Portiuncula University Hospital are not fit for purpose. It is important we see movement on and funding provided for this replacement unit.

The hospital has completed the design stage along with full costings. They were submitted to the HSE Estates in 2017. Our biggest issue is the funding of this project. I look forward to a positive response from the Minister of State regarding this 50-bed unit at Portiuncula University Hospital.