Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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171. To ask the Minister for Health his views regarding ownership of the new national maternity hospital; his plans to ensure that it is retained in public ownership; and the timeframe to make a final decision on this matter. [29421/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that I recently asked for a period of time to reflect on, and address, issues associated with the National Maternity Hospital project. While work is continuing on these issues, I am happy to note the significant developments that have taken place over the period. I have met with the Chair and CEO/Master of both hospitals and reaffirmed my commitment to the project. In addition, there has been extensive engagement between the St Vincent's Healthcare Group and my officials.

Discussions are continuing with the St. Vincent's Healthcare Group on the terms of the State's investment in the new hospital and, in particular, arrangements for the protection of this investment. The Mulvey agreement envisaged that further consideration was required in relation to the legal mechanisms necessary to protect the State's considerable investment. My Department is very actively engaged in devising suitable arrangements to ensure that the facilities are legally secured on an on-going basis for the delivery of publicly funded maternity, gynaecology and neonatal services.

I hope to update the Government on the project very shortly.