Childrens' Hospital Review Group presents report to Minister for Health
Dr. Frank Dolphin, Chairperson of the Review Group on the National Children's Hospital, has reported back to the Minister for Health. The group was established by the Minister, Dr. James Reilly, after An Bord Pleanála refused to grant planning permission on the Mater Hospital site.
The Group was given 56 days to report back to the Minister, however this was increased by 14 days given the workload and the number of submissions received. Over 30 site offers were received, 21 groups met with the group.
The Group included Mr Simon Clear, Mr Michael Collins, Professor Jonathan Hourihane, Professor B.G.Loftus, Mr John Martin, Professor Clodagh O’Gorman, Ms Louise Shepherd and Professor Owen Smith as well as Dr Dolphin himself as Chairman .
Dr. Frank Dolphin said "‘Within our terms of reference our role was not to select a site; that is a matter for the Minister and the Government. With the combined clinical, technical, planning and managerial expertise on the Group, the options available have been thoroughly examined within our terms of reference. We recognise that this is a hugely important decision and there is a once in a generation opportunity to get it right. I know I speak for all concerned when I say that the Group will be available to brief the Government on any aspects of the report should that be required."
The Minister said ‘The National Children’s Hospital is a strategic project for our health services and for this country. What greater investment in our nation’s future then in the wellbeing of our children. It is desperately needed for sick children and their families. I am determined to deliver a world class hospital for the children of Ireland providing the highest quality treatment they deserve. I made sure that the composition of this group had the expertise, calibre and independent minded approach needed to provide the Government with impartial expert opinion. I now look forward to considering the report and will be bringing it to Government shortly’.