Govt must now deliver on commitments made in long awaited Capital Plan – Butler

Fianna Fáil TD for Waterford Mary Butler says the long-awaited capital plan for health, which has been published today finally gives clarity on the second permanent cath lab and mortuary facilities at University Hospital Waterford.

Deputy Butler welcomed the publication of the plan but says it must be followed through.

“I am pleased that the second cath lab in Waterford is progressing. This has been one of my main priorities over the past number of years and its inclusion in the capital plan is testament to the determination of the local Oireachtas members who have been pushing so hard to get it over the line. To see the commitment in print is a huge step forward, and I will be continuing to keep the pressure on the government to deliver on this promise”, said Deputy Butler.

“The plan also confirms that the project to build a replacement mortuary has now reached tender stage. It is imperative that this process proceeds without delay, as the current facilities are simply not fit for purpose.

“I am hopeful that the extensive waiting lists for ophthalmology will be reduced over the coming years, following confirmation that a new Ophthalmology Unit at UHW is now at planning stage. The current situation is completely unacceptable and I am pleased that action is now being taken.

“While some of the announcements in today’s report are almost at the completion stage – such as St. Patricks Hospital Waterford and the Palliative Care Unit (Dunmore Wing at UHW) – the emphasis now has to be on ensuring staffing levels are in place so that there can be a smooth transition for patients and staff alike.

“I am concerned that the National Children’s Hospital project overrun will have a detrimental impact on the delivery timelines of some of these capital projects and I, along with my party colleagues will be keeping pressure on Fine Gael to ensure that these important projects are delivered on time and within budget.

“I have worked extremely hard to secure the provision of the second permanent cath lab at University Hospital Waterford, and I will be monitoring its progress carefully”, concluded Deputy Butler.