The redevelopment of the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Dún Laoghaire is on hold until a working group on rehab services concludes its work later this year.
Minister of State at the Department of Finance Martin Mansergh told the Seanad that the future of the €200 million development — which will see almost a doubling of capacity at the NRH to 235 beds — also depended upon the overall capital budget for health and other competing health projects.
Responding to a motion tabled by Fine Gael Senator Eugene Regan, Minister Mansergh said: “The proposed development will be considered further in light of the findings and recommendations of the group which is currently reviewing national policy for the provision of rehabilitation services, available health capital funding and other competing investment priorities. “We must ensure the proposed development at the National Rehabilitation Hospital is in keeping with any future policy direction determined by the Minister in light of the work of this group,” he added. Senator Regan replied that the Government’s commitment to advancing this project was seriously in question given Minister Mansergh’s comments in the House.
While the project was provided for in the National Development Plan, had received full planning permission and had already gone out to public tender, the Government seemed intent on ‘backtracking’ on the scheme, he stated.
“The Government’s unwillingness to clearly state its intention and continue support for this project is a cause of real concern and suggests a real possibility that this vital project could be shelved,” added Senator Regan.
About Gary Culliton
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