Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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Question 245: To ask the Minister for Health when he expects building works to commence on the new national children's hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35060/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware I commissioned an independent Review regarding the location of the new hospital on the Mater Campus. I announced the outcome of the Review on 6 July 2011. The independent experts who formed the Review Team, having examined all the issues in accordance with the Terms of Reference came to the unanimous and unequivocal recommendation that the development of the new hospital should proceed on the Mater Campus.

I confirmed the Government's acceptance of the recommendation of the Review Team and requested the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board (NPHDB) to proceed with a planning application to an Bord Pleanála. Planning permission has just completed the oral hearing stage and a decision is expected early next year. Subject to receipt of planning permission it is intended to go to tender for construction of the new hospital by mid 2012, with a view to commencement of construction as early as possible in 2013.