Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 114: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if it remains Government policy to proceed with the construction of a new National Children's Hospital at the Mater Hospital site; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34966/08]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 115: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the amount of public moneys that have been expended to date on preparation for the construction of the National Children's Hospital at the Mater Hospital site; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34967/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 114 and 115 together.

The development of the National Paediatric Hospital is a priority project for the Government. The Capital Plan includes provision for the development of the new hospital and the associated Ambulatory and Urgent Care Centre at Tallaght.

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 Health Service Executive 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. A more accurate estimate of costs will be available at that point.

My Department has asked the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to revert directly to the Deputy on the other issues raised by him.