Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail)

I appreciate that this does not relate to the Minister of State's Department or area of responsibility. I accept that the Minister is out of the country but I am nonetheless very disappointed that not one of the Ministers of State from the Department of Health could make himself or herself available to respond on this very important Commencement matter. I would like that to be relayed to the Minister's office. The update on the strategic healthcare investment framework indicated that phase 1 is progressing through that, is under consideration by the HSE capital planning expert group and, "If approved, a capital submission to secure capital funding from 2026 and onwards can be considered." That sounds to me like, "How long is a piece of string?" I will genuinely walk out of here today none the wiser. I do not think that is good enough. I just do not think it is good enough for a project of this significance and potential value, particularly as this is a model of best-in-class, world-class healthcare that is not being provided elsewhere in the country. The HSE or the Department of Health did not initiate or deliver it, but have evaluated and accepted it as world class in its standard and have no issues with the quality of care. In fact, they commend it as a model, yet they are moving at a glacial pace. All they are being asked to do is provide the funding. A project team has been put in place by Teach An Saol by people who are giving voluntarily of their own time, talents and skills. All the State is being asked to provide in this instance is the funding. I really do not think that should take as long as it is taking.

I genuinely appreciate the Minister of State attending today. I am sorry to send him back with this message, but I need him to go back with the loud and clear message to the Minister and the Department that it is not good enough. The reply is absolutely not good enough.