Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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Question 204: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding plans for the proposed children's hospital at the Mater site; if plans have been submitted to An Bord Pleanála; the discussions that have been held with An Bord Pleanála; if she is satisfied that despite the concerns expressed by a number of paediatric consultants, the proposed site is the most appropriate and in the best interest of children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35339/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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The National Paediatric Hospital Development Board and the HSE are making good progress in their work to bring this important project to fruition. The Integrated Design Team, appointed in October 2009, completed the concept designs for the new children's hospital and the Ambulatory & Urgent Care Centre at Tallaght in February 2010.

The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government signed the commencement order for Section 78 of the Planning and Development (Amended) Act (2010) on 5 October 2010. The NPH Development Board will now enter pre-consultation discussions with An Bord Pleanála, following which the planning application for the new children's hospital will be submitted. The designs for the new children's hospital have demonstrated that the site at the Mater campus meets the requirements for children, young people and their families. The professional advice available indicates that the Mater site is the appropriate location. I am committed to proceeding with this important project at this location.