Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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2279.To ask the Minister for Health to provide an update on the provision of a level 3 hospice in Tullamore (details supplied). [32250/24]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The development of a site at Tullamore is a named priority area for action in the HSE National Service Plan (NSP) 2023, HSE Capital Plan 2023 and Three-Year Palliative Care Services Development Framework (2017 – 2019). A commitment was given as part of NSP 2024 to progress the development of plans for the new specialist palliative care inpatient unit at the Tullamore location. It is also a commitment in the Programme for Government.

As Minister, I am fully committed to the building of a new Midlands Hospice. In September 2022, the Government announced €20 million in capital funding for the development of a 20-bed specialist palliative care inpatient unit in the Midlands. The development will provide a hub for the provision of specialist palliative care services across the Midlands, including day care, outpatient, inpatient and community services. In 2024, the palliative care budget increased by €19.9m to a total allocation of €155.5m.

It is anticipated that a decision on the chosen site for the new Midlands Hospice will be announced shortly. The selected site will provide the best palliative care to the people of the Midlands. The Department of Health will continue to progress developments for palliative care services in Ireland, working towards the highest possible quality of end-of-life care and support for people with life limiting illnesses across the country.

I trust this information is of assistance to you.