Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2026
123. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Health the consideration currently being given to the expansion of elective care capacity in the midlands, specifically Offaly; the likely timeframe associated with any such consideration; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17321/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am fully committed to ensuring sufficient health care capacity across Ireland.
The HSE Capital Plan sets out a range of investments for the Midlands, including:
• The recently completed two-storey emergency department extension for adult and paediatric care (respiratory assessment unit) for Regional Hospital Portlaoise;
• reconfiguration of the renal department to provide additional dialysis treatment space and 2 additional neutral pressure isolation rooms in Tullamore Regional Hospital;
• progressing the appraisal for the replacement ward accommodation, theatre dept. and emergency dept. project for Regional Hospital Mullingar
Alongside this excellent progress, I recognise that further capacity will be required into the future.
The HSE Dublin and Midlands Health Region has confirmed that it is undertaking an analysis to inform the future development of an action plan. This early scoping phase is intended to consider potential options for new or additional capacity, including in the area of elective care. An Expressions of Interest process forms part of this broader review. Work to define scope, parameters and governance arrangements is ongoing. The process is expected to be completed by the end of Q1 2026. I am assured that the Region will provide updates as this work develops.
The implementation of Health Infrastructure Investment Policy via the Strategic Healthcare Investment Framework means that any future proposal for new infrastructure will be centred on evidence-based demand analysis, and established on a need identified by services.
