Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 January 2026
25. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Health if her Department has plans to open more primary care centres in north Kildare, specifically in the town of Leixlip, which has a rising population; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5019/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to thank the Deputy for allowing me to update the house on this matter.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has advised that significant consideration is been given to the development of a Primary Care Centre (PCC) to serve the North East Kildare region. It is important to note a decision was made to develop a North East Kildare PCC to service the area, along with the existing Maynooth Health Centre remaining in operation.
The proposed North East Kildare PCC is to be delivered through the Operational Lease Model. Under this model, the HSE enters into fixed-term leases with a preferred provider for locations selected for the provision of PCCs. The preferred provider delivers the completed facility and has responsibility for maintaining it.
In line with the Strategic Healthcare Investment Framework (SHIF), all HSE community services have been asked to review the local needs and service plans in the North East Kildare area. This review process will refine the level of healthcare estate required in the area.
The HSE has further advised that this process is being finalised with HSE Estates and the service at present, with the intention to submit to the Property Review Group in Q1 2026 to seek permission to advertise a PCC location.
The location for the North East Kildare PCC will be informed by a number of elements including the service need outlined in the expressions of interest for development of the PCC, along with consideration of zoning by the local authority and responses to the expression of interest process.
I welcome the HSE’s commitment to reviewing and updating the health service requirements of North East Kildare and the efforts being made to progress the development of this PCC to tender.
