Hospital development on hold

THE developers of a private hospital in Waterford say they have put their project on hold for the moment pending an imminent announcement by Health Minister Mary Harney on cancer treatment and services in the region.

Harlequin Healthcare received planning permission from Waterford City Council last June to develop a 40-bed, private hospital at Kilbarry on the edge of the city.

But now those behind the project say the proposed development is on ice, adding that they might join forces with consultants at Waterford Regional Hospital who are proposing a private wing onto the unit there.

Joe Kelly, chief executive of Harlequin Healthcare, said the company is waiting for clarity on the proposals on private investment on public hospital land, due to be announced soon by Ms Harney.