Minister ‘confident’ of breakthrough in row over CF beds

Junior Health Minister Kathleen Lynch has said she is hopeful of a breakthrough in the protracted dispute between a Cork hospital and a cystic fibrosis charity that has stalled the development of a €2.3m ward for patients with respiratory illness.

“We have started discussions and had a meeting last week,” said Ms Lynch, reflecting on the stand-off between Cork University Hospital and Build4Life. It has led to the charity’s refusal to hand over funds for the adult ward.

“The meeting was cordial and very constructive. We are meeting again on Friday of this week and I am confident that we can conclude discussions then.”