Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
792. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Health if she will confirm that the co-location of standalone maternity hospitals with adult acute hospitals will remain Government policy into the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37333/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraCo-location of remaining standalone maternity hospitals with adult acute services aligns with international best practice. Co-location provides mothers access to a full range of medical and support services. Tri-location with paediatric services ensures immediate access to specialist paediatric services.
In 2023, Government gave approval for the National Maternity Hospital project to proceed to tender. The new hospital will be co-located with St Vincent’s University Hospital. The tender process, which began in September 2023, is now complete. Tender evaluation is ongoing.
Relocation projects for the remaining standalone maternity hospitals are at an early stage. Relocation project proposals are required to progress through a series of approval stages. This is in line with the Infrastructure Guidelines published in December 2023.
