merrion street

Health Minister James Reilly today announced an independent review of the project to build the new National Children’s Hospital on the site of the Mater Hospital in Dublin. This will include a financial analysis, followed by a clinical review.

The terms of reference for the financial analysis will be:

To examine and independently verify the estimated cost differentials identified in relation to building, equipping and running the proposed National Paediatric Hospital (a) if constructed on the site currently proposed and (b) if constructed to the same specification on notional alternative sites.

The clinical review will then be carried out by NACHRI/CHIEF with the following terms of reference:

To examine whether the potential clinical benefits, if any, of locating a Children’s hospital beside the Adult hospital on the Mater site outweigh:　

(i) Any cost differential; and

(ii) Any design issues, including access to the hospital.

To submit a final report to the Minister for Health, with any recommendations as considered appropriate, within four weeks of the commencement of the clinical review.

The Minister reiterated the Government's commitment to the construction of a new Children’s hospital and the need to ensure that the project is delivered in the most cost effective way and with the maximum benefit for patients:

It is my intention to ensure the best possible clinical outcomes for children within the resources available. I wish to thank the international experts who have agreed to carry out this review and I look forward to the delivery of their Report in the shortest possible timeframe.

Read the full press release here.