I welcome the announcement that the proposed new surgical hub build at University Hospital Waterford has been formally agreed and site construction has commenced.
This facility when fully commissioned will allow elective scheduled day care surgeries to be completed without impact from the acute activity taking place in the general hospital.
UHW south east elective surgery waiting lists have been among the longest waiting in the country and the delivery of this facility with appropriate staffing will significantly improve access to timely treatment and reduce waiting times.
I would like to thank Minister Donnelly, Department officials and HSE management for their commitment to ensuring this project received the priority delivery pathway promised.
I would also like to sincerely thank the Estates Department in the HSE for their assistance to me and their cumulative work to see this project timeline realised as agreed.