Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the Minister for Health, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, I thank the Senator for the opportunity to update the House on the HSE primary healthcare centre for Cahersiveen.

The programme for Government commits to opening more primary care centres. Providing a home first approach to healthcare will empower people to receive integrated healthcare in their communities in line with the Sláintecare objectives. The primary care centre programme consists of a network of circa 300 projects being delivered through the operational lease model 2 or traditional means of a HSE build. In addition, 14 programmes were completed through public-private partnership. Under the programme, 181 primary care centres are in operation, 51 of which have been open since 2020.The majority of primary care centres are delivered via the operational lease model. Over the period of the Department of Health’s sectoral plan from 2026 to 2030, primary care centres will continue to be delivered under the primary care centres programme by the HSE by traditional means through the operational lease model.

With specific regard to Cahersiveen, which is the area the Senator is raising today, HSE capital and estates has reviewed a number of potential sites in the environs of Cahersiveen and has shortlisted suitable options. Initial due diligence is nearing completion to assess the feasibility, constraints, suitability and deliverability of a primary care centre, as well as to identify the preferred location. As part of this assessment, the HSE is also considering a development-led proposal from a private entity that has been granted planning permission by Kerry County Council in Cahersiveen. This proposal forms part of the overall appraisal process, which is focused on determining the most suitable and sustainable option to meet the healthcare needs of the people of Cahersiveen and the wider surrounding area.

Health infrastructure investment policy aims to ensure that Sláintecare reforms are achieved and that they improve the delivery of capital healthcare projects and achieve value for money. The HSE capital approvals process provides a structured and objective basis for assessing health infrastructure proposals. It examines service need, projected demand, value for money and alignment with national and regional health service priorities.

The proposed Cahersiveen primary care centre is intended to support the delivery of integrated, community-based healthcare services, including GP services, primary care centres and other multidisciplinary supports locally. Subject to completion of the assessment and the receipt of the necessary approvals, a capital submission will be developed and progressed through the HSE approval process. This submission will outline the preferred location, proposed scope, next steps and indicative timelines for delivery of the primary care centre. A final decision will be made once all viable options are given full consideration.