Five private firms compete to manage two hospitals

ONE Irish and four British private companies are vying to win a lucrative contract to effectively manage two of Ireland’s largest regional hospitals for the next 15 months.

Health Minister James Reilly has confirmed the shortlist for the controversial project, which will focus on University Hospital Galway (UHG) as well as the Mid-Western Regional Hospital in Limerick.

The names of the companies have not yet been revealed as no decision on the winning applicant has been made. However, the successful firm will receive the lucrative contract at the end of next week.