Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Health the steps he has taken in the past six months to progress the development of the two new primary care centres in Coolock, Edemore, Raheny and Darndale, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57440/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Progress is being made in the delivery of primary care infrastructure. With regard to the PPP initiative for primary care infrastructure, the current position is that the HSE is engaging with the NDFA as required to progress the programme. The HSE is currently analysing the available sites in each location and engaging with the GPs in each location to determine their interest in participating in the primary care centre development. The HSE has commenced the procurement of design teams and technical advisors to progress the design and planning submissions for the primary care centre sites, and the preparation of the PPP procurement documents. Coolock and Darndale were announced as potential locations for primary care centres in the July 2012 PPP Stimulus Package. Up to 20 of the 35 locations announced will be offered to the market subject to a) agreement between the local GPs and the HSE on active local GP involvement in the centres and b) site suitability and availability.

The method and timescale for the delivery of primary care infrastructure is dependent on a number of factors; it is a dynamic process constantly evolving to take account of changing circumstances, including the feasibility of implementation.

There are always more construction projects than can be funded from the Exchequer's capital health care allocation. The Executive is required to prioritise infrastructure projects within its overall capital envelope taking into account the existing capital commitments and costs of completion over the period. Work is underway on the Executive's multi-annual Capital Plan 2013-2017. The draft Plan will be submitted to my Department in due course. My Department will then review the proposals and follow up with the HSE where further details may be required. The draft Capital Plan 2013-2017 will require my approval with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.