Back to the drawing board, but few clear answers are available

IT WAS the word all sides in the divisive children’s hospital location row were dreading — review. An Bord Pleanála’s decision to refuse planning permission is to be studied by a review body to be set up under the chairmanship of former HSE chairman Frank Dolphin.

James Reilly, the health minister, said they — whoever they turn out to be — would take to the task with “great urgency and immediacy” and make recommendations as to what should happen next.

After years of reports, task forces, consultants’ opinions and reviews, the thought of yet another round of boardroom head-scratching produced a collective groan.