Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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Question 566: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on the status of the National Children's Hospital project; the long-term future for Crumlin Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30788/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The development of the National Paediatric Hospital is a priority project for the Government. The objective is to provide a world class specialist paediatric service for children in this country.

The National Paediatric Hospital Development Board was established in May, 2007. Its primary function is to plan, design, furnish and equip the new national paediatric hospital. The HSE is working closely with the Board in progressing the project.

The project is currently at initiation stage. A contract has been awarded for business advisory services. A detailed Development Brief for the new hospital is being prepared and is due for completion by the end of the 1st Quarter 2009. The Development Brief will be converted into a detailed design, outlining the exact dimensions and specifications for the new hospital, to allow the project proceed to tender for construction.

The legal requirements to enable the transfer of the designated site for the hospital to the HSE have been agreed.

The long-term future of the Crumlin facility following transfer of current services to the National Paediatric Hospital will be a matter for discussion between the Hospital, the HSE and my Department.