Catherine Noone (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for coming to the House for this important debate. I concur with much of what Senator Buttimer had to say. I was going to briefly address certain issues he raised but I will instead speak about issues affecting my constituency. The Minister in his introduction referred to the improvements that will be made to Beaumont Hospital, particularly its cystic fibrosis unit. For patients suffering with cystic fibrosis it can be fatal not to have 24-hour access to a unit. As all present are aware, it is a very difficult disease to live with. For that part of north Dublin and beyond, the commitment to a cystic fibrosis unit is of crucial importance and much appreciated. I would like to see it tangibly delivered. I would be interested in any feedback the Minister may have on how the planning process is going and when the sod is likely to be turned on the new unit.

The new emergency department provided for in the capital programme is badly needed for the benefit of adults and children throughout Dublin Bay North, which I represent, and beyond. The upgrade of the ICU and the radiation oncology project are also very important. These are all included in the capital plan. On delivery, I will steal the words of Senator Buttimer, or perhaps those of Boris Johnson: let us get it done. Let these projects become a reality in Beaumont. I am unsure whether the Minister can provide a timescale for delivery today, but I am very interested to know when the sod will be turned on the project.